The pursuit of Brayden Schenn by the Toronto Maple Leafs has become one of the most discussed topics leading up to the NHL trade deadline. Insiders suggest the potential acquisition of the St. Louis Blues captain could significantly bolster Toronto's roster, particularly filling their need for depth at center. Reports indicate the Maple Leafs, under General Manager Brad Treliving, are actively considering this trade, highlighting their competitive aspirations this season.
Brayden Schenn, 33, has been with the Blues since 2017 and has established himself as not only a two-way center, contributing to both offense and defense, but also as their captain. This season, he has demonstrated his skills by collecting 12 goals and 21 assists, along with 147 hits, showing he brings physicality and scoring to the table. His current contract runs through the 2027-28 season at an average annual value of $6.5 million, but it includes significant hurdles for any potential trade due to his full no-trade clause, which will transition to a 15-team no-trade list this summer.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the possibility of reuniting the Schenn brothers is drawing interest from multiple teams, including Toronto. Both brothers could provide complementary strengths—Brayden as the versatile offensive presence and Luke serving as the rugged defensive support. Friedman noted, “There’s been a lot of talk obviously about Brayden Schenn...but what I do think has happened is teams have talked about uniting the Schenn brothers.” Luke Schenn currently plays with the Nashville Predators, adding another layer to this potential trade scenario.
Trade dynamics, depending on how the Maple Leafs structure their offer, could involve other teams, making this transaction potentially more complicated. If both Schenns were to join the Leafs, the trade might require creative structuring, possibly necessitating up to three teams to accommodate salary cap constraints and roster requirements. The Maple Leafs have only $1.3 million available under the salary cap, complicate the feasibility of this deal.
Despite the challenges, insiders such as TSN's Darren Dreger assert the Leafs are intent on strengthening their lineup. Dreger revealed, “The Maple Leafs are heavily looking to acquire...Brayden Schenn,” adding weight to the speculation about Toronto’s front office being serious about penetrating the trade market effectively. The need for depth at center is palpable, especially as the Leafs prepare for the playoff push.
Schenn's history with Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube, whom he won the Stanley Cup with in 2019, might also play positively during the negotiation period. Both players would bring experience and grit to the lineup, which is precisely what the Leafs need as they aim to solidify their chances for success. Schenn could easily slot not just at center but potentially on the wing, adding versatility to their offensive arrangements.
Though many predict Schenn will be among the more sought-after players at the deadline, the asking price remains high. Friedman notes, “The asking price for Brayden will be significantly higher than for Luke.” This puts Toronto at risk of needing to part with valuable prospects or draft picks—such as promising players Fraser Minten or Nikita Grebenkin—to secure the deal.
What adds another layer of complexity is the reported interest from competing teams. It is understood more than one franchise is inquiring about the Schenn brothers, putting pressure on the Maple Leafs to act quickly and decisively. Although it may seem like the Maple Leafs have the assets to make the move, trading key prospects for established players is always contentious, particularly with the organizational priority of developing young talent.
The prospect of bringing Brayden Schenn to Toronto excites fans, particularly considering his strong offensive contributions and leadership qualities. Still, the hurdles of the salary cap, player availability, and potential trade return will leave the Leafs pondering if such a deal is plausible. There's also the looming deadline of March 7, 2023, for trades to be finalized, leading to increased urgency within the organization.
Even amid speculation, fans have reason to be optimistic. The Leafs have shown they are willing to make impactful trades, and their current positioning within the division narrative provides motive to reinforce their roster. If the combination of both Schenn brothers materializes, it could lead to what many supporters are hoping for—a genuine shot at the Stanley Cup.
Therefore, as the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will remain on the Maple Leafs and their pursuit of Brayden Schenn. Both excitement and apprehension brew within the fan base, who hold their breath to see if the team can pull off this ambitious move. Will Brad Treliving manage to unite the Schenn brothers, or are these whispers of trades just fleeting negotiations? The answer could define the Maple Leafs' season.