Trade Pitch Has Maple Leafs Acquiring Star $40.9 Million Star Forward
The Toronto Maple Leafs are firmly in the conversation as legitimate Stanley Cup contenders, and as the trade deadline approaches, they are expected to be active in the market. Strengthening their forward group appears to be a priority, and one trade proposal suggests bringing in a star forward to boost their offensive firepower.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, which allows fans to craft potential trades, one user proposed a deal that would see the Maple Leafs acquiring Nick Schmaltz from the Utah Grizzlies. This hypothetical move could provide Toronto with an additional scoring option to enhance their already potent lineup.
Maple Leafs acquire:
Nick Schmaltz ($2.9 million retained)
Utah acquires:
Fraser Minten
David Kampf
2025 second-round pick (Florida’s)
2027 fourth-round pick
The proposed trade would be a blockbuster deal that seems to benefit both sides. Toronto would gain a boost to their offense, while Utah would receive a promising prospect, a current NHL player, and two valuable draft picks to aid in their rebuilding efforts.
Nick Schmaltz, now in the sixth year of his seven-year, $40.95 million contract, could slot in as either a second- or third-line center for the Maple Leafs. While Schmaltz has yet to score a goal this season through 22 games, he has tallied 17 assists. His 22-goal performance last season demonstrates his potential as a capable goal scorer, making him a versatile addition to Toronto’s lineup.
The key pieces heading to Utah would include two draft picks and prospect Fraser Minten. Minten, selected in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft, projects as a future third-line center, bringing strong developmental potential to Utah’s organization.
Additionally, David Kämpf would provide immediate depth as a fourth-line center. Known for his defensive abilities, Kämpf has recorded 0 goals and 3 assists in 18 games this season, offering a reliable presence in a more limited role. This trade could address both teams’ needs effectively, with Toronto bolstering its playoff push and Utah adding assets for the future.
Maple Leafs Star Forward Still Out With Injury
One reason the Toronto Maple Leafs may prioritize acquiring a forward is the string of injuries that have decimated their forward group. Key players Auston Matthews, Max Pacioretty, Max Domi, and Calle Järnkrok are currently sidelined, with Matthews being the most significant absence.
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube provided an update on Matthews, revealing that while the star forward had a productive practice, he won’t return to the ice until November 27 at the earliest.
“He had a real good practice, but he has been off a while,” Berube explained. “Getting into a full practice was very important. But both him and I, as well as the organization, feel he needs a little bit more to be ready to go. It’s not a healing thing… it’s stamina, getting up to speed, and making sure he is ready. We want to make sure he is comfortable and ready to go.”
Matthews, who hasn’t skated since November 3 against the Minnesota Wild, has played 13 games this season, tallying 5 goals and 6 assists for 11 points. With his absence leaving a major gap in Toronto’s lineup, exploring trade options for a forward makes sense as they aim to maintain their competitiveness in his absence.
Matthews Impressed With Team’s Success
Despite dealing with a series of injuries, the Toronto Maple Leafs have managed to maintain their winning ways. In the eight games without Auston Matthews, the team has posted an impressive 7-1-0 record, showing resilience and depth in his absence.
Matthews, while eager to return, expressed pride in how his teammates have risen to the challenge.
“I don’t think it’s ever easy, but when you continue to bank wins and progress as a team, that’s the sign of a great team, and it definitely gives you a lot of encouragement to see that,” Matthews said. “It (stinks) watching. I want to be out there as soon as possible, but to see guys step up and other players step in and make an impact, that’s a great sign for us.”
The Maple Leafs will face the Florida Panthers on the road on November 27, with hopes of extending their strong run as Matthews works toward his return.