Auston Matthews' former teammate could be the perfect Maple Leafs trade target
The Toronto Maple Leafs may have an opportunity to help their center depth by targeting Vincent Trocheck who is a former member of Team Auston Matthews at last year's All-Star Game.
As seen on Maple Leafs Daily, the Leafs' injuries including David Kämpf's lower-body issue and Auston Matthew's recent absence, have left them thin at center line.
Despite preferring to keep Fraser Minten in the AHL this season, the Leafs had to rely on him in a third-line role and it showed the terrible need of depth at the position.
Vincent Trocheck is currently in the third year of a seven-year contract with a $5.625 million cap hit and could be the answer for Toronto.
The Leafs would need cap relief or some cap space place to fit him in, but Trocheck's two-way play and proven playoff pedigree make him a valuable asset in the NHL.
His 20 points in 16 playoff games last season and consistent 20+ goal production over the last three seasons show his ability to deliver in important situations.
He also has some familiarity with players like Matthews, Mitch Marner, Morgan Rielly and William Nylander from their All-Star collaboration, and it could ease the transition.
Vincent Trocheck's polyvalence would provide the Leafs with the secondary scoring they've lacked and solidify their lineup down the middle.
With the Leafs holding on to their top prospects and having some draft capital, they possess the assets needed to make a serious offer.
Whether Brad Treliving trade for Vincent Trocheck or explores other options will depend on how the market develops as the trade deadline approaches.
However, Trocheck's experience, ability to score and defensive reliability makes him a good target worth considering for a playoff run.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 2 | 126 ANSWERS Auston Matthews' former teammate could be the perfect Maple Leafs trade target Do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs should trade for Vincent Trochek? | ||
| YES | 56 | 44.4 % |
| NO | 70 | 55.6 % |
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