The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to make significant roster changes this offseason, especially with Mitch Marner and John Tavares heading into free agency. NHL insider David Pagnotta from The Fourth Period suggests that the Leafs might pursue a major trade for New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider.
Pagnotta noted, “Treliving will likely explore trade options, but it will require creativity. Could Chris Kreider be the right fit? The Rangers are anticipated to put him on the market as they aim to free up cap space. Although Kreider had a down year, his $6.5 million cap hit and playing style could complement Toronto’s second line if he returns to his 30+ goal form.”
Kreider is under contract for two more years on a seven-year, $45.5 million deal. He could slot in as a top-six forward for the Maple Leafs, potentially filling the offensive gap left if Marner and Tavares depart. Since New York is shopping Kreider, acquiring him might not cost Toronto heavily. The Leafs also have the cap space to absorb his contract and hope he rebounds after a disappointing season.
Last year, Kreider scored 22 goals and added 8 assists for 30 points in 68 games, well below his career-best 52 goals and 77 points in 2022. He also notched 75 points two seasons ago.
Toronto’s early playoff exit this season, losing in the second round to the Florida Panthers, left many questions unanswered. Coach Craig Berube admitted frustration over the team’s inability to perform in crucial moments despite showing promise earlier.
Berube said, “I don’t think the moment’s too big for them. We won critical games in Ottawa and Florida, but we just didn’t execute when it mattered, especially in Games 5 and 7. I don’t have an answer for why that happened.”
The Maple Leafs haven’t advanced past the second round since 2002.
Meanwhile, Kreider remains hopeful about staying with the Rangers despite trade rumors. He expressed loyalty to New York, saying, “This is home for me. This organization gave me the chance to live my dream. I’ve built strong relationships here, and this is the team I want to help win.”
Kreider has spent his entire 13-year NHL career with the Rangers, but with New York looking to reshape their roster, his name is expected to surface in trade discussions again this summer.
