The Toronto Maple Leafs, amid their desperate situation, could be looking to add talent wherever it may be available. One such player who could provide the club with some spark is Anaheim Ducks defenseman Pavel Mintyukov.
The Fourth Period reported on November 23 that the Ducks’ former first-rounder has been unhappy regarding his ice time this season. So, the 22-year-old has reportedly asked for a change.
As the Fourth Period noted, several teams have inquired about Mintyukov’s availability. Among the teams, the Maple Leafs have been linked to Mintyukov. Unfortunately, the Russian prospect has just three assists in 19 games this season. The underwhelming start has put Mintyukov on the outs.
That situation has made Mintyukov relatively expendable in a talented Ducks’ lineup. The Ducks could be looking to make a move to bolster their depth. The Ducks have had a resurgent season this year, so adding depth will be crucial.
Meanwhile, teams looking to add more talent up front could find help in Mintyukov. In addition to the Maple Leafs, the San Jose Sharks, Vancouver Canucks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Winnipeg Jets have shown interest.
As for the Maple Leafs, there’s no telling how much interest the club could have. But there’s reason to believe Toronto could be looking to add a talented young blueliner amid the shake-up promised by GM Brad Treliving.
How Mintyukov Fits into Maple Leafs Lineup
The Toronto Maple Leafs sit in last place in the Atlantic Division following this past weekend’s action. The Leafs have found difficulty in getting scoring beyond the top players, William Nylander and John Tavares. The loss of Matthew Knies and Auston Matthews has made the situation even more pressing for Toronto.
So, adding a still promising player like Mintyukov could help boost the Maple Leafs’ scoring, particularly from the back end. The Russian D-man could fit into the club’s second pairing with Jake McCabe, as Mintyukov’s speed and skill could be a boost.
Alternatively, Mityukov could partner with Troy Stecher to make a sort of dynamic bottom pair for the Maple Leafs. Stecher has emerged as a solid piece for Toronto in his first couple of games. Perhaps partnering Mityukov with Dakota Mermis could make for an even more interesting third pair.
Leafs Could Ship Veteran Forward for Mityukov
The Maple Leafs have a surplus of veteran forwards. For instance, Calle Jarnkrok, who’s been a part of consistent trade rumors, could be a person of interest for the Ducks. The Ducks and their predominantly young team could use a defensively responsible veteran forward to complement the team’s depth.
Additionally, other roster players like Dakota Joshua and Matias Maccelli could be of interest, as well. Considering the Leafs’ desperate situation, any sort of move is on the table for the club. There is no question that the Maple Leafs have to get creative to address what has been an unmitigated disaster this season.
The team’s inconsistent play and dreadful injury situation have forced the conversation towards finding other options. Brad Treliving could be turning over stones to find something, or anything, to spark a turnaround while there’s still time left this season.
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