The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to shake up their roster this offseason, and NHL insider David Pagnotta has linked them to a potential trade for New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider.
With both Mitch Marner and John Tavares entering the final year of their contracts, Toronto may be looking to retool its forward group. Pagnotta believes Kreider could be a prime trade target as the Rangers aim to clear cap space.
“Kreider may be made available again, and his playing style and $6.5 million cap hit could fit well in Toronto’s top-six,” Pagnotta wrote for The Fourth Period. “If he can return to 30+ goal form, he could be a strong addition to the second line.”
Kreider, 33, has two years remaining on his seven-year, $45.5 million contract. He’s coming off a down season, registering just 22 goals and 8 assists in 68 games. But in 2022, he recorded a career-best 52 goals and 77 points — and 75 points the following season.
Given the Rangers’ interest in moving Kreider, the asking price might be relatively low. Toronto also has the cap space to make the deal work, especially if Marner or Tavares are moved.
Leafs Still Searching for Playoff Success
Following another early postseason exit — this time in the second round to the Florida Panthers — head coach Craig Berube expressed frustration but not doubt in his team’s potential.
“I don’t think the moment’s too big for them,” Berube said. “It’s mental. These guys are capable. They just didn’t execute when it mattered.”
Toronto has not advanced beyond the second round of the playoffs since 2002, keeping pressure high on management to consider bold changes.
Kreider Wants to Stay in New York
Despite trade rumors swirling, Kreider has made it clear that he prefers to stay with the Rangers.
“This is home for me,” he said. “This is the organization that let me live out my dream. I’ve grown here, built relationships, and I want to help this group win.”
Kreider has spent his entire 13-year NHL career with the Rangers.
