The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly considering bringing back a familiar face to bolster their defense, according to Jonas Siegel of The Athletic. With the trade deadline approaching, and the team riding a positive streak, General Manager Brad Treliving is said to be prioritizing a right-shot defenseman. The name gaining traction is Luke Schenn, a former Maple Leafs' first-round pick from 2008.

Schenn, currently with the Nashville Predators, is reportedly open to a change of scenery, especially to a playoff contender. This has fueled speculation about a potential third stint with the Maple Leafs. Siegel suggests that acquiring Schenn "could be the move that suits the Leafs right now". He argues that Schenn would be an upgrade over current depth options and, if he can replicate the chemistry he had with Morgan Rielly in 2023, would improve the team's defensive situation.

Darren Dreger of TSN also mentioned the possibility of the Maple Leafs reuniting with Schenn, suggesting they could likely acquire him for a lower-end draft pick. Dreger acknowledged that while Schenn has lost some speed, he remains a smart, tough defenseman with a valuable presence in the locker room. However, Dreger believes Treliving should be aiming higher than Schenn.

The potential acquisition of Schenn comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the health of Chris Tanev, a key defenseman for the Leafs. Tanev's potential absence due to injury has amplified the need for defensive reinforcements. The Maple Leafs have been actively exploring options to add a puck-moving defenseman to stabilize their back end. The team had previously shown interest in Egor Zamula, but he signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Schenn, 36, is in the final year of a three-year contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent. Acquiring him would not only be cap-friendly but also likely wouldn't require significant assets in a trade, which is crucial for the Maple Leafs, who are limited in draft picks and prospects.

While Schenn may not be the top-tier defenseman some fans are hoping for, his familiarity with the organization, affordability, and potential to recapture past chemistry with Rielly make him a viable option for the Maple Leafs as they navigate the trade market. The coming weeks will be crucial as Treliving evaluates potential targets and aims to solidify the team's defense for a playoff push in the competitive Atlantic Division.