Ekman-Larsson heading to the Leafs?

Just when you thought the trade rumors surrounding Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson had finally died down, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman took to the airwaves in Toronto this morning to throw more fuel on the fire. During a morning appearance on Toronto’s Sportsnet 590 radio, Friedman discussed the pending UFA’s status with his parent club and connected the dots on a potential blockbuster deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

“I think what they’re doing is they’re waiting for the right piece,” said Friedman regarding the Leafs’ need to acquire a defenseman. “To me, [Lou] Lamoriello is the kind of GM – he’ll strike when he sees the right move, right.”

The question is, will Ekman-Larsson become available to the Leafs? Coyotes GM John Chayka has made it clear that he has no intentions on moving his number one blue liner, but the situation may be out of his control. Edman-Larsson’s agent has gone on record this past week saying that his client wants to see more direction from his team, if he’s going to commit long-term. You want to see direction? How about the Leafs? With a strong management group and a dynamic collection of young players, the team looks poised to be Stanley Cup contenders for years. Could a player like OEL put them over the top? 

“And I think if he ever did become available,  Toronto is a team that could make that trade,” said Friedman. He’d be a fit with exactly with what they’re looking for.”

There’s no denying that a defenseman of Ekman-Larsson’s skill would transform the team’s blue line. While Morgan Rielly has done an admirable job in the #1 spot, he’s really more of a #2 or #3 defenseman. The addition of Ekman-Larsson would bump everyone else down the depth chart and put them into roles that they may be more better suited to perform in. 

While nothing looks imminent, this is a rumor that’s DEFINITELY worth keeping an eye on between now and the NHL’s February 26th trade deadline. Sit tight, Leafs fans.