Rumor of a blockbuster deal between the Leafs and the Penguins

We have heard rumblings of a possible blockbuster deal between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Pittsburgh Penguins. With Evgeni Malkin's upper body injury, many experts believe Pen's general manager Jim Rutherford should try to bring in another centerman via transaction, ideally someone who would be able to replace Nick Bonino's production.

The Hockey News' Matt Larkin is one of them. He suggests Rutherford should take a look at the Leafs, who may be willing to part ways with pending unrestricted free agent Tyler Bozak:

"Rutherford must start looking at more realistic No. 3 center options, guys who can replace Bonino’s production. Pending UFA Tyler Bozak of the Toronto Maple Leafs would be a perfect fit. Even if Malkin’s injury turns out to be minor, you know there’s another one coming. He doesn’t play 80- or even 70-game seasons anymore."

His colleague, Lyle Richardson, added that since the Pens only have roughly $1.6 million in cap space, they would have to move salary in another deal. He also gave us a good idea of what the Leafs could ask in return of Bozak:

"With James van Riemsdyk facing an uncertain future in Toronto, the Leafs could ask the Pens for Conor Sheary in return. Or maybe they try to land a defenseman and ask for Olli Maatta or Brian Dumoulin."

Bozak and Sheary both recorded 11 points in 24 games this season.