Maple Leafs could lose Chris Tanev sweepstakes to non-playoff team!

Earlier this season, the Toronto Maple Leafs already tried to make a play for defensemen Tanev and Nikita Zadorov in a package, but the trade fell through when the latter was moved to the Vancouver Canucks. The Maple Leafs are reportedly still interested in acquiring the veteran blue liner, however, Darren Dreger explained on last night’s edition of Insider Trading on TSN, that Toronto isn’t the possible landing spot for Tanev, who is being sought out by a non-playoff club.

“There are multiple teams that are in the mix. Of late, it seems to be the Ottawa Senators. I can tell you that the Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs most definitely have a keen interest in Tanev.

“Ottawa, I think, looks at Tanev as being a foundational fit, which tells us It’s not just about the trade, it’s about the contract extension that would likely have to happen after they acquired Tanev.

“There are lots of teams that remain interested, including non-playoff teams like the Senators and some other contending teams as well. As I was reminded, doesn’t Chris Tanev have to make a decision? Is he chasing the Stanley Cup this year? And if the answer to that is yes, then that’s going to factor significantly into his destination of choice.”

If Tanev is seeking a shot at the Stanley Cup, he might stay away from the Senators thanks to his 10-team no trade list. However, the Maple Leafs might find it quite expensive to land Tanev, who many league executives believe could fetch at least a first-round pick, plus a prospect.

The shut-down defenseman will be one of the most coveted player ahead of the trade deadline, and if Toronto wants him, it will have to pay up. No matter which team lands Tanev, they will have an efficient blue liner on hand. If that team is a contender, no doubt Tanev brings it strong hopes to load up for a Stanley Cup run.

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