Leafs continuing to look for upgrades on their blueline

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively pursuing defensive upgrades to bolster their blueline under general manager John Chayka. Through the first 11 games of the season, Toronto sits in fifth place in the Atlantic Division with 12 points. Speaking on Daily Faceoff LIVE, hockey insider David Pagnotta reported that the club has been in the market for a second-pair caliber, defensive-minded defenseman to help stabilize an aging and injury-prone defense corps.

Any potential trade will involve significant challenges due to Toronto's salary cap situation, likely requiring a contract-in, contract-out deal. High-profile targets like Simon Edvinsson or Alexander Nikishin would command a premium return such as prospect Easton Cowan, which Pagnotta believes the Maple Leafs are unwilling to part with. Consequently, Toronto may look to move out existing contracts to facilitate improvements.