The Maple Leafs may have just found two important openings in their pursuit of Zach Werenski.
Toronto’s case got a boost on the player side first. Werenski is not only open to a move to the Leafs, he has reportedly listed them among his top preferred destinations if Columbus decides to trade him.
Elliotte Friedman had previously reported that Werenski was resisting any move out of spite, but the expectation now is that he could eventually settle down and accept one. For a defenseman who holds real leverage in the process, that is no small thing for a Toronto front office already in talks.
If Werenski is willing to land in Toronto, it also makes sense to think he could be open to a long-term extension there.
The second break could matter just as much: the price tag may not be as steep as many expected.
For a while, the assumption was that Matthew Knies would have to be the centerpiece in any offer sent to Columbus. Darren Dreger says that may not be the case.
As per Darren Dreger, “It’s been assumed Knies will be part of a package if Toronto lands Zach Werenski. See how things develop, but there’s a chance the Leafs won’t have to give up the power forward if this trade comes together.”
That would be a major win for Toronto. The Leafs would be willing to move Knies, but they’d clearly prefer not to.
He brings size, physicality and a net-front presence, and he’s on a team-friendly long-term contract. If Toronto could land a true No. 1 defenseman without parting with that kind of young core piece, that would be an ideal outcome.
Still, nothing is finished.
Dreger’s update comes with the obvious warning that negotiations can shift fast. Columbus will set its own asking price, and the Tampa Bay Lightning are also in the mix.
Even so, Toronto has reason to feel encouraged. The player appears receptive, and the possible package may not have to include the asset many assumed would be off the table.
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