As the Stanley Cup Final approaches its climax, the rest of the NHL is buzzing with offseason activity. One of the hottest topics today revolves around the Toronto Maple Leafs and their interest in a defenseman from the Vegas Golden Knights.
NHL Rumors
The offseason promises to be a whirlwind of activity. With multiple teams looking to trade their first-round draft picks and a host of intriguing free agents available, this summer is set to be thrilling for hockey fans. The trade market is particularly hot, with several key players rumored to be on the move. High-profile names like Jacob Markstrom, Linus Ullmark, and Patrik Laine are generating buzz, and there’s always speculation surrounding Mitch Marner. However, one name that has caught the attention of several teams is Shea Theodore.
Teams Calling on Shea Theodore
Recent NHL rumors suggest that the Toronto Maple Leafs are eyeing Shea Theodore. This potential move makes sense, as the Golden Knights are pressed against the salary cap and have several roster spots to fill. Trading Theodore, who has one year left on his contract with a cap hit of $5.2 million, could provide significant financial relief for Vegas. At 28 years old, Theodore still has many productive years ahead of him.
The Maple Leafs have been actively seeking to bolster their defense. Despite acquiring players like Joel Edmundson at the trade deadline, Toronto still needs higher-impact players. Shea Theodore would be a substantial upgrade to their blue line. According to Nick Kypreos, the Maple Leafs were also interested in Brandon Montour, who offers similar value to Theodore.
How Theodore Fits a Need
Theodore would address a significant need for the Maple Leafs, who have glaring holes on their defense and require a puck-moving defenseman. Theodore excels in this role and has developed into an offensive threat since joining the Golden Knights. Since the 2019-20 season, Theodore has consistently surpassed the 40-point mark, including a career-best 52 points in the 2021-22 season.
Theodore would also enhance the Maple Leafs’ power play. While he may not be a prolific goal scorer, his precise passing and ability to set up Toronto’s goal scorers would be invaluable. He can play top-pair or second-pair minutes and could complement Morgan Rielly, helping to create a more balanced defensive unit. With one year remaining on his contract, Maple Leafs’ GM Brad Treliving can focus on the immediate benefits Theodore brings, leaving contract negotiations for later.
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