The NHL is buzzing with trade speculation as teams assess their rosters and aim to make key acquisitions before the 2025 Trade Deadline. With player injuries reshaping lineups, two teams stand out as they explore potential trades: the Ottawa Senators and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Ottawa Senators have faced significant goaltending challenges following injuries to both their starting and backup goaltenders. Linus Ullmark, the team's starting goalie, suffered a setback before the Christmas break, leaving Anton Forsberg, his backup, struggling with his own injury after being sidelined since mid-December.
With rookie goalie Leevi Merilainen stepping up to play his first games since last season, the Senators are quickly realizing they might need to look outside their current roster for help. Mads Sogaard received his call-up and made his debut, but the results weren’t promising, as he took the loss against the Winnipeg Jets just days after Ullmark's injury.
Enter Petr Mrazek of the Chicago Blackhawks. Despite having underwhelming statistics this season—7 wins and 14 losses with a 3.23 goals against average—Mrazek's experience and past performance as a quality backup could make him appealing for the Senators. The 32-year-old goalie is playing for one of the league's weakest teams, which might account for his struggles, but he has the playoff experience the Senators desperately need as they aim for a postseason berth.
Mrazek is under contract until 2026 with a cap hit of $4.25 million, making him no stranger to NHL trade discussions. His contract situation presents the opportunity for the Senators to evaluate and possibly secure him as Forsberg deals with his injury. The Senators will need dependable goaltending, especially as they target a deep playoff run.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are carefully considering their options to strengthen their center position. The franchise's management has indicated they are seeking to move John Tavares to the wing, thereby needing to acquire another center who can fill the void. They have their eyes on veteran forward Jonathan Toews, who, after facing health issues, may be poised for a comeback.
Toews, at 36 years old, previously played for the Chicago Blackhawks where he recorded 15 goals and 16 assists during the 2022-23 season. His storied career includes three Stanley Cup wins, six All-Star appearances, and significant leadership accolades.
According to NHL pundit Frank Seravalli, the Maple Leafs might show interest in Toews when he completes his recovery. Alongside the Jets and Avalanche, Toronto is seen as one of the teams monitoring Toews’ situation closely. If the Maple Leafs can successfully bring Toews on board, he could seamlessly integrate as either a second or third-line center, bolstering their forward depth.
Still, Toews' past health challenges cast doubt on his capability to perform without missing much of the action from the last few seasons. While reportedly slower than before, his experience could provide the necessary two-way strength on the ice alongside Tavares and Auston Matthews.
Adding Jake Evans from the Montreal Canadiens is also being considered. The 28-year-old center has one season remaining on his current contract at $1.7 million, making him another possible option for the Maple Leafs. With the Canadiens struggling to compete this season, they might be open to trading Evans to gather potential draft picks and bolster their rebuilding efforts.
Evans has carved out a role as a reliable two-way forward, which aligns with what the Maple Leafs are seeking. If they manage to implement him effectively, they may also desire to extend his contract beyond the current season.
Throughout the league, trade discussions are likely to intensify leading up to the deadline, and both the Senators and the Maple Leafs have significant avenues for addressing their needs. The Senators must find a suitable solution for their goaltending conundrum, potentially turning to Mrazek, whereas the Maple Leafs are weighing multiple options, including the possibilities of acquiring either Toews or Evans.
With each decision carrying weight, the trades these teams pursue could markedly impact their chances for success as they strive for playoff contention and aim to secure the coveted Stanley Cup.
Whether it's enhancing roster depth with strategic acquisitions or providing backup help, the NHL's upcoming trade window presents both opportunities and formidable challenges as teams navigate their postseason aspirations.