**NHL Rumours: Toronto Maple Leafs Roster Players That Could Be Traded at the Deadline**
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, teams across the league are preparing to make moves to either strengthen their rosters for a playoff push or clear cap space for the future. The Toronto Maple Leafs, with a well-constructed but cap-strapped roster, are no exception. With the postseason within their sights, the Leafs are expected to be active in the trade market. Here’s a look at some roster players who could be on the move before the deadline.
**1. John Klingberg**
After signing a one-year deal with the Leafs in the offseason, Klingberg’s tenure in Toronto has been somewhat underwhelming. Despite being a power-play quarterback, he hasn’t had the offensive impact many had expected. His $4.15 million cap hit makes him a trade candidate, especially with the Leafs needing to clear space for potential deadline acquisitions. A contender looking for an offensive defenseman could be interested in Klingberg as a rental player.
**2. Justin Holl**
Justin Holl has been a key part of Toronto’s blue line for years, but his name has been mentioned in trade rumours for a while. He is a reliable, stay-at-home defenseman who can provide solid minutes, but his inconsistent play this season and expiring contract make him a potential trade piece. With Toronto needing to free up cap space to bolster their forward group, Holl could be moved to a team in need of defensive depth.
**3. Pierre Engvall**
Pierre Engvall has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to find consistent form in Toronto. With a cap hit of $2.25 million and set to become a restricted free agent in the summer, Engvall could be a player the Leafs move to create additional cap flexibility. He has the size and skill to contribute to a team looking for a middle-six forward, and there’s interest from teams looking to add depth without sacrificing too much.
**4. Alex Kerfoot**
Alex Kerfoot has been a versatile forward for the Leafs, able to play both center and wing in various roles. However, his $3.5 million cap hit, combined with a lack of significant offensive production, could make him a candidate to be moved at the deadline. Teams looking for a solid two-way forward who can play up and down the lineup could find Kerfoot to be a useful addition. His contract makes him more difficult to trade, but the Leafs could retain some salary to facilitate a move.
**5. Matt Murray**
The goaltending situation in Toronto has been a hot topic, and Matt Murray’s struggles have only added to the uncertainty. Injuries have kept Murray from playing a consistent role, and with Ilya Samsonov taking over as the number one goaltender, there’s a chance Murray could be moved. If the Leafs are looking to clear cap space and upgrade in goal, moving Murray’s $4.7 million cap hit could be the solution. His contract might require the Leafs to retain salary, but a trade to a team in need of a backup goaltender could work for all parties.
**6. Wayne Simmonds**
Wayne Simmonds’ role on the team has diminished in recent seasons, and at 35 years old, he no longer holds the same physical edge he once did. Simmonds is an expiring contract and could be moved to a team in need of a veteran presence or toughness in their bottom six. While he’s not a game-changer, Simmonds brings leadership and experience to the table, which could be attractive to teams preparing for a deep playoff run.
**Conclusion**
The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a delicate position as the trade deadline approaches. While they are a Stanley Cup contender, their cap space is limited, and with a few players underperforming or becoming expendable, Toronto could look to make moves to upgrade their roster. Whether it’s freeing up space for a big-name acquisition or adding depth to an already talented lineup, the Leafs will be active in the trade market. Expect the names above, along with a few others, to be closely watched in the coming weeks as Toronto makes its final push for the playoffs.