Brad Treliving is ready to give up a key Maple Leafs asset as he seeks a new Center
Topi Niemela, the Toronto Maple Leafs' 2020 third-round pick has long been considered a top prospect in their system.
As reported by Hockey Patrol, recent developments suggest he may be on the brink of becoming a trade chip as the Maple Leafs search for upgrades to their roster like a top defenseman.
Despite his promise, Topi Niemelä has struggled to have consistent playing time with the AHL's Toronto Marlies.
Recently, he has been a healthy scratch and this raises questions about his role and future with the organization.
Niemelä's numbers paint a picture of a productive young defenseman since he leads all Marlies defensemen in scoring with 10 points in 20 games this season.
His offensive contributions and his reputation as a steady defensive presence is making him difficult to attribute his absence to a lack of talent.
However, the Leafs' depth on defense has created a logjam that has stopped Topi Niemelä's path to the NHL.
His limited opportunities have led to speculation about whether he's simply being given time to adapt to the North American game or if he's fallen out of favor with the coaching staff.
At just 22 years old, Niemelä remains a valuable asset with large potential and his situation resembles other European defensemen who took time to adjust to North American ice like Simon Edvinsson, Simon Nemec and Rasmus Sandin who all required patience before making their mark in the NHL.
For Brad Treliving, Niemelä's trade value could be used to address the Leafs' pressing needs with Toronto's pursuit of a top-six center or an immediate NHL contributor on defense could make Niemelä a good piece in negotiations.
There are potential hurdles to moving Niemelä since teams may be wary of trading proven NHL players for a prospect who has recently been a healthy scratch in the AHL.
However, Niemela remains an enticing option for teams looking to help their prospect pool and his pedigree as a former top prospect and his two-way potential should keep him on the radar of interested teams.
If the Leafs decide to part ways with him, it could signal their intent to go all-in for a deep playoff run this year.
Whether he remains a key piece of Toronto's long-term plans or becomes part of a trade package for immediate help, Niemelä's name will be one to watch in the next months.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 23 | 128 ANSWERS Brad Treliving is ready to give up a key Maple Leafs asset as he seeks a new Center Do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs will trade Topi Niemela? | ||
| Yes | 93 | 72.7 % |
| No | 35 | 27.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
