Maple Leafs Officially Out on Top Deadline Defenseman Target
The Toronto Maple Leafs have officially been ruled out as contenders for one of the top defensemen on the trade block.
Maple Leafs Officially Out On Hanifin
Recently, insider Frank Seravalli spoke on the Toronto Maple Leafs and top defenseman Noah Hanifin.
"the Lightning are missing lots of assets that could be useful to the Flames in a potential deal" - also Seravalli
MAKE IT MAKE SENSE
Seravalli did go on to mention how Tampa is the top suitor yet they do not have the assets to land Hanifin like the Leafs. It appears that Brad Treliving is more focused on long-term success rather than a short-term cup run that may end fruitlessly.
Should The Leafs Still Be In On Hanifin?
The Calgary Flames seem to be shopping most of their top players and this includes both Hanifin and defenseman Chris Tanev (whom the Leafs have shown keen interest in). Hanifin is younger than Tanev, has more offensive flare, and is just entering the prime of his career now.
Because of these three factors, Hanifin will come at a higher premium than Tanev, potentially multiple first-round picks amongst other assets. With Treliving focused on keeping the Leafs competitive long-term and refusing to part with top prospects like Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan, it looks like the two sides will simply be unable to work a deal out.
| POLL | ||
Should the Leafs still be in on Hanifin? | ||
| Yes | 341 | 47.6 % |
| No | 375 | 52.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
