The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly showing interest in acquiring defenseman Dougie Hamilton from the New Jersey Devils. The potential acquisition of the 32-year-old Hamilton could provide a boost to the Maple Leafs' blue line, specifically in puck-moving capabilities and power play enhancement.
Reports indicate that the Maple Leafs have been scouting the trade market for a puck-moving defenseman, and Hamilton fits that description. TSN's Pierre LeBrun suggested that both the Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes would be ideal fits for Hamilton. However, being an ideal fit doesn't guarantee active engagement in trade conversations. The Leafs have also been linked to Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson, who possesses a similar playing style to Hamilton.
Several factors could complicate a potential trade. Hamilton has a 10-team trade list, effectively a 21-team no-trade list, and it's unclear if Toronto is on that list. However, Hamilton's agent, J.P. Barry, has indicated a willingness to broaden the list for the right opportunity.
A significant hurdle is Hamilton's $9 million annual salary through the 2027-28 season. It is unlikely that Toronto would absorb that full amount without the Devils retaining a portion to alleviate cap space. To make the financials work, the Maple Leafs might need to place defenseman Chris Tanev on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR), freeing up approximately $3.8 million in cap space. Additionally, trading a forward like Matias Maccelli to New Jersey could further ease the cap situation.
Jimmy Murphy of RG Media reported that the Toronto Maple Leafs, Anaheim Ducks, Vegas Golden Knights, Detroit Red Wings, and Utah Mammoth have all expressed interest in Hamilton.
Hamilton's situation with the Devils has been somewhat turbulent, including being a healthy scratch. After being scratched against the Winnipeg Jets, speculation about a potential trade intensified.
While the Maple Leafs have been performing well recently, earning 18 out of a possible 20 points in their last ten games, the addition of Hamilton or another defenseman hasn't lost urgency. Acquiring Hamilton could significantly improve the Maple Leafs' power play, an area where contributions from the blue line have been lacking.
The Devils are reportedly also trying to move Ondrej Palat.
