The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly exploring several options to bolster their defense, with the trade deadline drawing closer and the injury to Chris Tanev creating a need for veteran presence and skill on the blue line. Luke Schenn, Dougie Hamilton, and Rasmus Andersson have emerged as potential targets for the Leafs.
Luke Schenn: A Familiar Face?
Luke Schenn, currently with the Winnipeg Jets, has been linked to a possible return to Toronto for a third stint. The veteran defenseman was drafted fifth overall by the Leafs in 2008 and played in Toronto until 2012. He briefly returned in 2023 before signing with the Nashville Predators as a free agent. TSN's Chris Johnston suggests that acquiring Schenn would be a cost-effective move for the Leafs, given their limited trade assets. Darren Dreger of TSN speculated that Schenn could be acquired for a lower-round draft pick. At this stage in his career, the acquisition cost would be modest. Bringing back Schenn could provide a leadership presence and a familiar pairing with Morgan Rielly.
Dougie Hamilton: A High-Priced Option
Dougie Hamilton of the New Jersey Devils has also been mentioned as a potential target for the Maple Leafs. The Fourth Period reported the Leafs' interest in acquiring Hamilton, noting his puck-moving ability. Jimmy Murphy of RG Media reported that the Leafs, along with several other teams, have expressed interest in the 32-year-old defenseman. However, Hamilton's $9 million cap hit through the 2027-28 season presents a significant hurdle for Toronto. To make the finances work, the Devils would likely need to retain salary, and the Leafs might need to place Chris Tanev on long-term injured reserve. There are reports that Hamilton had a 10-team no-trade list, and it is not clear if Toronto is on that list, though his agent has said he would be open to broadening the list for the right opportunity. Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos cautioned that there may be some tension between Hamilton and Leafs' GM Brad Treliving, who traded him away when Treliving was with Calgary.
Rasmus Andersson: Another Right-Shot D-man
Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames is another right-shot defenseman who has been linked to the Maple Leafs. Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun listed Andersson as a potential trade target for the Leafs. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported that both Andersson and the Flames would like to find a resolution before the Olympic break. However, Jonas Siegel of The Athletic considers Andersson to be out of the Maple Leafs' price range.
With the trade deadline fast approaching and the Olympic roster freeze looming on February 4th, Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving faces a critical decision. The team's need for defensive reinforcements is clear, but the cost and complexities of acquiring players like Hamilton and Andersson may make a reunion with Schenn the most feasible option.
