The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and the chatter surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs is shifting from “buying” to “selling.” In a season defined by inconsistency and injuries, one bright spot on the blue line has seemingly played his way into becoming the team’s most valuable trade chip.
According to former Leaf and TSN 1050 analyst Carlo Colaiacovo, the Leafs aren’t just testing the waters on veteran defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson—they are sitting on a potential goldmine. Colaiacovo believes that if Toronto decides to move the 34-year-old rearguard, the return won’t be a mid-round flyer.
“They will get a first-round pick,” Colaiacovo suggested, pointing to the premium contenders place on puck-moving defensemen with Cup pedigree.
For a Leafs team potentially looking to retool on the fly, capitalizing on Ekman-Larsson’s resurgence—where he has led the backend in scoring with 32 points in 53 games—is a tempting proposition. But who is paying that price?
The Asking Price and Potential Landing Spots
If the asking price is indeed a first-round pick, the market narrows to legitimate Stanley Cup contenders desperate for blue-line stability.
The most obvious connection is the Edmonton Oilers. General Manager Stan Bowman has been aggressive in his pursuit of defensive depth to support a deep playoff run. The Oilers have the offensive firepower, but they need the transition game that OEL provides. A package centering on Edmonton’s 2027 first-round pick and a roster player to match salaries makes legitimate sense for both sides.
Another intriguing option is a reunion with the Florida Panthers. Having won the Cup with Florida in 2024, Ekman-Larsson knows the system and fits their heavy-forechecking, active-defense style. If Florida deals with injuries on the back end, don’t be shocked if they make a call to bringing the veteran home.
Latest Leafs News, Fantasy Pools, and NHL TV Schedule
Stay locked to nhltraderumor.com for breaking updates as we inch closer to the deadline. While you’re here, why not test your GM skills? Join our Online Hockey Pool for cash prizes—it’s the best way to compete against fellow hockey fanatics while watching the games. Speaking of games, if you are looking for how to watch the Leafs game on TV today (Jan 29), they face off against the Seattle Kraken at 10:00 PM ET. You can catch the action on Sportsnet Ontario. Don’t forget to bookmark our site and subscribe below!
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