A proposed trade suggests the Toronto Maple Leafs could acquire former first-overall pick and Stanley Cup champion Aaron Ekblad from the Florida Panthers.
Ekblad, who was selected first overall by the Panthers in the 2014 NHL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the franchise. However, following Florida’s Stanley Cup victory, his name has surfaced in trade discussions. PuckPedia’s new tool, PuckGM, has facilitated a proposal where Ekblad is moved to Toronto.
**Proposed Trade Details:**
**Toronto Maple Leafs Receive:**
– Aaron Ekblad
– Carter Verhaeghe
**Florida Panthers Receive:**
– Timothy Liljegren
– Nick Robertson
– Calle Jarnkrok
– Bobby McMann
– 2027 First-Round Pick
– 2025 Second-Round Pick (Florida’s)
This potential blockbuster trade would see Toronto significantly enhance both its defense and offense with Ekblad and Verhaeghe. Ekblad’s addition would solidify the Maple Leafs’ blue line, while Verhaeghe would bolster their forward depth.
For Florida, the trade would relieve some salary cap pressure and provide immediate replacements and future assets. Liljegren would help offset Ekblad’s departure, and Robertson, Jarnkrok, and McMann could contribute up front. Additionally, Florida would receive valuable draft picks for future trades or development.
**Ekblad’s Trade Status:**
Before NHL free agency on July 1, insider David Pagnotta reported that Ekblad was on the trade block for the Panthers. He noted that Ekblad, entering the final year of his contract, had been discussed with several teams, including the Maple Leafs. Pagnotta mentioned that teams like Toronto, Utah Hockey Club, and Nashville Predators were interested in acquiring a top-pair defenseman.
Ekblad has played 676 NHL games, recording 115 goals and 232 assists for 347 points.
**Maple Leafs’ Defensive Upgrades:**
Toronto has focused on strengthening its defense this offseason by signing Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson in free agency. They also re-signed RFA Liljegren to a two-year deal. GM Brad Treliving expressed enthusiasm about the defense’s new blend of puck movers, size, and versatility, offering the coaching staff numerous options.
The Maple Leafs were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season by the Boston Bruins.
