As the NHL Trade Deadline on March 6 inches closer, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Instead of gearing up for a deep playoff run, they’re six points out of a wild card spot with time running out - and that changes the equation.
For a team that’s usually in “buy now” mode, the Leafs might have to pivot toward selling, or at least retooling. And if that’s the case, the Edmonton Oilers - a team with Stanley Cup-or-bust aspirations - could be their ideal trade partner.
Oilers Eyeing Bobby McMann’s Physical Edge
One name that’s surfaced in the rumor mill is Bobby McMann, and it’s easy to see why he’s drawing interest from Edmonton. The Oilers are looking for grit and scoring depth in their bottom six, and McMann checks both boxes. He’s not just a bruiser - he’s already got 19 goals to his name and carries a team-friendly $1.35 million cap hit.
For a cap-tight team like Edmonton, that kind of production at that price is gold. If Toronto is willing to retain a slice of his salary, they could squeeze out a high draft pick and potentially a solid prospect in return. It’s the kind of deal that works for both sides - Edmonton gets immediate help, and the Leafs add future assets.
Ekman-Larsson, Roy Also on Oilers’ Radar
But McMann isn’t the only Leaf-linked name in Edmonton’s crosshairs. Reports have also connected the Oilers to Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Nicolas Roy - two players who could fill key needs for a team trying to shore up its weaknesses before the postseason grind.
Edmonton’s blue line has been hit-or-miss this season, and Ekman-Larsson brings veteran experience and puck-moving ability that could help stabilize their top four. He’s not the elite defenseman he once was, but he doesn’t need to be - just steady and reliable.
Meanwhile, Roy would give the Oilers a legitimate third-line center, something they’ve lacked in recent playoff runs. His $3 million cap hit is manageable, especially if Edmonton finds a way to clear space - Andrew Mangiapane’s name has been floated as a possible outgoing piece.
There’s also some buzz that a deal involving Ekman-Larsson could include a prospect like Isaac Howard going the other way. That’s the kind of asset Toronto could use if they decide to recalibrate for next season.
Goaltending Watch: Could Stolarz Be the Answer?
Then there’s the crease. Despite adding Tristan Jarry and calling up Connor Ingram, Edmonton’s goaltending still feels like a question mark. That’s where Anthony Stolarz enters the conversation.
Stolarz is just getting back from injury, but he reminded everyone what he’s capable of with a strong showing against the Oilers on February 3. That game might’ve been more than just a win - it may have been an audition. He’s a big, calm presence in net who doesn’t get rattled, and for a team like Edmonton that’s looking for stability between the pipes, he could be a smart insurance policy.
Toronto, on the other hand, has Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby waiting in the wings. If they’re ready to take on larger roles, Stolarz becomes expendable - and potentially valuable on the trade market.
What’s Next for Toronto and Edmonton?
The Olympic break gives both teams a bit of breathing room, but the clock is ticking. Edmonton is feeling the pressure - after back-to-back near misses, the urgency to win now is real. Toronto, meanwhile, has a chance to turn a tough season into a strategic pivot.
If the Leafs decide to sell, they’ve got pieces that can help a contender right away. And if the Oilers are serious about making a run, they might be willing to pay the price. This could be one of those rare win-win scenarios - if both sides play it right.