Darren Dreger Details Failed Toronto Maple Leafs Trade for Brock Nelson
NHL Insider Darren Dreger was on TSN 1050 radio this morning where he revealed the Toronto Maple Leafs were very close to acquiring Brock Nelson on Thursday.
Throughout the trade deadline news cycle, it has become painfully obvious that the Toronto Maple Leafs would like to acquire a center.
One of the names that was on their list was none other than veteran Brock Nelson who has 20 goals and 43 points this season.
Toronto Maple Leafs miss out on Brock Nelson
According to Darren Dreger of TSN, the Maple Leafs were actually very close to acquiring Nelson, but they ultimately fumbled the bag.
How? Well, the New York Islanders wanted to be respectful to their veteran center and send him somewhere he would actually enjoy playing.
There was confusion about whether or not Brock Nelson was interested in going Canada and that is where things fell apart.
Friedman on Sportsnet says the Leafs are one of the teams feeling the most pressure today
Eventually, late last night, Nelson was traded to the Colorado Avalanche who are certainly about to be Stanley Cup contenders despite being in a Wild Card spot.
William Dufour also went to the Avalanche in the deal while the Islander received Calum Ritchie, a 1st round pick in 2026, and a 3rd round pick in 2028.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are still looking to make a big splash right now, and time is running out for them to do so.
If they don't make a deal soon, there is going to be a huge fallout from the fanbase and folks will be calling for Brad Treliving's job.
These next few hours are going to be fascinating and Maple Leafs fans are certainly holding their collective breath.
