Rumor: Leafs' star to start the season on trading block

Many potential destinations!

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
Rumor: Leafs' star to start the season on trading block
Keystone Press

The most recent trade rumors pointed mostly to Colorado Avalanche Matt Duchene and New York Islanders captain John Tavares, but several other players in the NHL appear to be starting the new season, already on the trade block. 

Sportsnet dressed a list of nine potential trade candidates for the upcoming season, and one of the Toronto Maple Leafs' star is on it. 

Many thought James van Riemsdyk would be moved last season, since Lou Lamoriello could use him to get a good return to strengthen his blue line.

The 28-year-old has repeatedly showed that he can bring a scoring punch. Last season, he recorded 29 goals and 62 points in 82 games with the Leafs. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2018. 

The Leafs brought in veteran Patrick Marleau and could afford to move van Riemsdyk, especially with young rising stars taking over in the roster. 

Sportsnet reports that van Riemsdyk could be headed to the Carolina Hurricanes, who have a lot of young defensemen to use as trade bait in the fold. He could also interested the Calgary Flames, the Florida Panthers, the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Anaheim Ducks.

Source: Sportsnet