Trade Proposal for Maple Leafs to Acquire Veteran Defenseman**
The Toronto Maple Leafs are focusing on bolstering their defense and goaltending, leading to a proposed trade that would bring veteran defenseman Matt Grzelcyk to the team.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, a user suggested a trade where the Maple Leafs would obtain Grzelcyk from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Pontus Holmberg, a 2026 third-round pick, and a 2025 sixth-round pick. This trade could benefit both teams, as the Penguins would receive a young forward and two draft picks for their future, while the Maple Leafs would gain an experienced defenseman to enhance their current lineup.
Grzelcyk, who signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Penguins in the offseason, might be available for trade if Pittsburgh continues to struggle this season. He brings valuable playoff experience and could fill a third-pairing defenseman role in Toronto.
In the proposed deal, the Maple Leafs would part with Holmberg, who is 25 and in the second year of his two-year, $1.6 million contract. Holmberg could provide depth scoring as a bottom-six forward for the Penguins and serve as a developmental asset.
**Recent Defenseman Trade by Maple Leafs**
Recently, the Maple Leafs traded Timothy Liljegren, a former first-round pick, to the San Jose Sharks. In return, they received defenseman Matt Benning and two draft picks. Despite this move, NHL insider Darren Dreger indicated that the Maple Leafs are likely looking for additional roster adjustments, potentially trading Benning as well.
Dreger mentioned that Toronto’s roster is currently full, prompting the need for further transactions, which might include waiving a player or sending someone to the AHL. He also suggested that Treliving might look to trade Benning, a veteran with 464 NHL games under his belt, who has contributed 102 points (17 goals and 85 assists) throughout his career.
**Grzelcyk as a Potential Trade Target**
With Grzelcyk’s one-year contract, he could become a prime trade target if the Penguins are out of playoff contention as the trade deadline approaches. NHL analyst Michael Derosa highlighted Grzelcyk’s potential as a valuable asset for teams, given his capability to play in a top-four role and his extensive playoff experience from his time with the Bruins.
Grzelcyk has played 457 NHL games, tallying 25 goals and 116 assists for a total of 141 points.
**Author Bio**
Cole Shelton writes about the NHL for Heavy.com and has covered professional and collegiate sports since 2016, with contributions to various outlets like BJ Penn, USA Today, SB Nation, and Rotowire.
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