Maple Leafs place goalie on the trade block to boost roster before deadline

The Toronto Maple Leafs may have more options than fans realize as the March trade deadline approaches, particularly when it comes to goaltending. Insider Nick Kypreos recently suggested that the Leafs could use their depth in net as leverage to address other areas of the roster.

And we know many teams out there could use an upgrade in between the pipes…

With Joseph Woll performing well and potentially earning the bulk of the starts, Toronto may feel comfortable moving one of its other goaltenders to pursue a scoring winger or a top-four defenseman. Anthony Stolarz, recently returned from injury, seems like the most likely candidate to be shopped. However, his four-year, $15-million contract extension kicks in this July, and he carries a 16-team no-trade list, which could complicate a deal.

Prospect Artur Akhtyamov and Dennis Hildeby are also possibilities, though the Leafs are expected to prioritize keeping Hildeby as part of their long-term plans. Still, either goalie could attract interest from teams in need of goaltending reinforcement for a playoff push.

Toronto’s depth in net gives general manager Brad Treliving some flexibility, allowing him to think creatively about packaging assets to improve the lineup. If Woll continues to deliver, the Leafs could theoretically swing a trade without sacrificing immediate stability in goal, which is a rare luxury in today’s tight NHL market.

With the trade deadline looming, the Leafs’ decision on which goalie, if any, becomes available could play a significant role in shaping the team’s playoff positioning.

Fans will be watching closely to see if Toronto is willing to cash in on its goaltending surplus to strengthen its roster, or if they’ll hold steady and keep all options between the pipes intact.