Maple Leafs Trade Pitch Acquires 6-Foot-4 Defenseman in Necessary Move

Heavy.com proposes a trade pitch for the Toronto Maple Leafs to acquire 6-foot-4 defenseman Nick Perbix from the Nashville Predators. Under the proposed permanent swap, Toronto would acquire Perbix in exchange for defenseman Dakota Mermis and a 2028 fourth-round draft pick originally belonging to Pittsburgh. The idea comes following Toronto's 3-4-2 start to the season and an injury to blueliner Chris Tanev.

Perbix is currently in the final season of a two-year, $5.5 million contract with Nashville. Heavy writer Cole Shelton argues that the Maple Leafs could use defensive reinforcements, noting that NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported Toronto is actively searching for a difference-maker on defense and is open to parting with premium assets.