The Toronto Maple Leafs are anticipated to make waves as the trade deadline approaches, with rumors swirling about a strategic move to enhance their defensive lineup.
Using PuckPedia’s engaging PuckGM tool for fan-generated trades, one savvy user proposed a tantalizing scenario: the Maple Leafs acquiring the talented Rasmus Andersson from the Calgary Flames.
In this imaginative trade:
Maple Leafs gain:
- Rasmus Andersson (with a $ 2 million retention)
Flames receive:
- Easton Cowan
- Simon Benoit
- A first-round pick in 2026
- A second-round pick in 2025 (from Florida)
This proposed exchange would be a significant coup for Toronto, acquiring Andersson in exchange for a promising prospect, an NHL-caliber defenseman, and a pair of valuable draft picks.
Andersson, currently in the fifth year of a six-year contract valued at $ 27.3 million, would significantly enhance Toronto’s defensive corps, offering flexibility to slot into either the top or second pairing. This season, he’s participated in 41 games with the Flames, netting 6 goals and providing 12 assists for a total of 18 points.
For Calgary, the centerpiece of their return would undoubtedly be the draft picks and the highly-touted Easton Cowan. The Maple Leafs selected Cowan in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft, and he has also showcased his skills with Team Canada in the previous two World Junior tournaments.
Simon Benoit, meanwhile, has become somewhat superfluous on Toronto’s defense and could be included in the trade. He has the potential to help fill the void left by Andersson. Currently, he is in the first year of a three-year deal worth $ 4.05 million and has appeared in 42 games, contributing 0 goals and 4 assists for 4 points.
Insider Advises Caution Regarding Cowan Trade
Cowan, regarded as Toronto’s premier prospect, faced challenges during both of his World Junior appearances. Following his underwhelming performances, many fans have called for his trade. However, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet urges the Maple Leafs to tread carefully before abandoning Cowan, particularly given his current low value.
“I know Cowan has faced difficulties over the past few weeks,” Friedman remarked on Fan590. “But it’s downright ludicrous to give up on this young player based on such a brief slump. His value is at its nadir right now, and I believe it’s absurd to part with someone of whom you have high expectations due to a couple of rough outings.”
Cowan was chosen 28th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. In his OHL season thus far, he has played 22 games, notching an impressive 15 goals and 15 assists for a total of 30 points.
Andersson Addresses Trade Speculation
With rumors heating up regarding a potential trade, Andersson’s name has surfaced as Calgary contemplates retooling its lineup. Despite the Flames engaging in a playoff battle, Andersson’s future has been clouded with speculation. However, he has voiced his desire to stay put in Calgary.
“I genuinely love it here and have always had that affection; it’s never going to change,” Andersson expressed. “I harbor a particular disdain for the Oilers and the Canucks, and that’s just how I roll. Naturally, I would be thrilled to remain, but I’ve been informed, like many others before me, that it’s a business. We’ll see how it unfolds.”
Andersson has dedicated his entire NHL career to the Flames.
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