NHL insider hints Maple Leafs GM John Chayka is considering a blockbuster deal on draft day
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
With the NHL Draft quickly approaching insider Pierre LeBrun has suggested that the Maple Leafs led by John Chayka could make a blockbuster trade involving the first overall pick.
The Toronto Maple Leafs endured their worst season as a team in a decade but were rewarded by winning the NHL Draft lottery and will select first overall.
Heading into the NHL Draft, there is not one consensus top selection as Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg are both considered deserving of first overall amongst others.
With the group at the top being so close together, reports have started to flood in suggesting multiple trades could take place near the top of the draft.
Now, a new report from insider Pierre LeBrun has suggested that the Maple Leafs could look to trade the first overall pick before draft day.
Maple Leafs considering trade involving the first overall pick per insider Pierre LeBrun
According to LeBrun, Chayka has not closed the door on trading the first overall pick and is actively listening to offers from other teams.
Not that the Maple Leafs are intent on moving the No. 1 pick, but...John Chayka also isn't hanging up the phone; If a team steps up in a meaningful way...Chayka will at least listen, according to league sources - Pierre LeBrun
While a trade involving the first overall pick is still highly unlikely, Chayka's willingness to listen will likely create conversation and debate all the way up until the Maple Leafs are on the clock.
If the Maple Leafs do trade down, it would likely set them up to take a defenseman later in the top five or even in the back half of the top ten depending on the trade.
However, passing up on a potentially elite talent like Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg could prove to be an incredible risk.
As the NHL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Toronto Maple Leafs and GM John Chayka to see whether they stick and pick or move down.
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