NHL Atlantic Division Trade Deadline Preview
TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS
Jan 12, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman
Jake Gardiner(51) in action against the New Jersey Devils at Air Canada Centre. The Maple Leafs beat the Devils 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
STANDINGS: 71 points, 4th Atlantic Division, 7th Eastern Conference
PLAYOFF PROGNOSIS/STATUS: Head above water / potential buyer & seller
NEEDS: Top 4 defenseman, gritty forward.
DEADLINE CAP SPACE: $2.4M
ASSETS TO DEAL: Jake Gardiner has almost been deemed expendable with the emergence of Morgan Rielly. Dave Bolland‘s contract requests might see him leaving town, but the injury factor might prevent the move.
RUMORS: Nikolai Kulemin could be moved, but has looked good in his audition after being moved to the middle, and could be a cheaper alternative going forward if Bolland proves too expensive. Mark Giordano is a name to keep your ears on.