As the March 6th NHL trade deadline approaches, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly eyeing several Toronto Maple Leafs players to bolster their roster. With the Maple Leafs' playoff chances uncertain, insiders suggest the Oilers are keen on acquiring players with term to solidify their lineup for a deep playoff run.

Elliotte Friedman of the FAN Hockey Show noted the Oilers' potential interest in what Toronto has to offer, now that the Maple Leafs might be sellers. While pending UFA Bobby McMann has been a prominent name in trade discussions, insiders indicate that initial talks between the two teams centered around Nicolas Roy and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period revealed that discussions leading up to the Olympic roster freeze involved Roy and Ekman-Larsson. Roy, 29, is in year four of a five-year, $15 million contract, while Ekman-Larsson, 34, is in the second year of a four-year, $14 million deal. Roy has 20 points in 54 games this season, and Ekman-Larsson has tallied 34 points in 57 appearances.

In addition to Roy and Ekman-Larsson, other Leafs players rumored to be on the Oilers' radar include forward Bobby McMann and defenseman Brandon Carlo. McMann, 29, has 32 points in 56 games and provides a physical presence. Carlo, also 29, has five assists in 34 games and is known for his defensive reliability.

The Oilers' interest in Carlo highlights their need for defensive support. Tristan Jarry recently criticized the Oilers for their defensive breakdowns and the high-quality chances they allow. Carlo's defensive style could be a perfect fit for the Oilers, who are looking for a defenseman similar to Mattias Ekholm.

Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Pronger suggested that the Maple Leafs should trade McMann if they can get a first-round pick in return. Pronger believes that acquiring a first-round pick would provide the Leafs with a valuable asset to facilitate a retool.

The Oilers' pursuit of Maple Leafs players aligns with General Manager Stan Bowman's preference for acquiring players with term. Bowman's track record suggests that he values players who can provide stability and contribute to the team's long-term success.

As the trade deadline nears, it remains to be seen which Maple Leafs players the Oilers will ultimately target. However, the Oilers' interest in players like Roy, Ekman-Larsson, McMann, and Carlo indicates their desire to add scoring depth and defensive stability to their roster.