The Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers were on the brink of a one-for-one trade that could have given two forwards a fresh start. But the Leafs reportedly backed out.
According to Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos, the proposed deal would have seen Matias Maccelli heading to Edmonton in exchange for Andrew Mangiapane.
From Edmonton's perspective, this trade had potential. Mangiapane hasn't lived up to expectations this season, and swapping him for a forward like Maccelli could inject some much-needed energy into the Oilers' playoff push.
Toronto, however, is in a different situation. With the March 6 trade deadline approaching, the Leafs are weighing their options.
They'd love to strengthen their roster, but the reality might force them into selling mode. Acquiring an older, underperforming Mangiapane doesn't align with their long-term goals.
If Maccelli is on the trading block, Toronto would be wise to seek a younger player or draft picks in return-assets that could benefit their future.
As for Mangiapane, his departure from Edmonton seems imminent, but the Oilers might need to find a contender willing to gamble on his experience. Teams in rebuild mode likely won't have much interest in him.