Maple Leafs could pull off a major trade with the Flames

Spencer Lazary of Editor In Leaf argues that the Toronto Maple Leafs should explore a trade with the Calgary Flames to acquire forward Connor Zary and defenseman Zach Whitecloud. Calgary recently placed Zary on waivers, and he cleared before being assigned to the AHL, though teams reportedly maintain interest with salary retention. Lazary suggests Toronto could target Zary at a reduced cap hit while also addressing defensive depth following an injury to Chris Tanev.

The writer notes that Whitecloud would fit well on Toronto's blue line, while Zary could strengthen the bottom-six forward group. To facilitate the proposed permanent trade under the salary cap, Lazary suggests Toronto could send forward Miles Wood, draft picks, and prospects such as William Villeneuve or Marshall Rafai back to Calgary.