The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up to address two key needs before the trade deadline: adding a third-line center and bolstering their defense. A compelling trade proposal suggests the Leafs could acquire Stanley Cup-winning defenseman Brian Dumoulin from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for future draft picks.
Created using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, the deal would see Toronto receive Dumoulin in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick (via Florida), a 2027 second-round pick, and a 2028 fourth-round pick. This trade could benefit both teams—Toronto would strengthen its defense with a seasoned champion, while Anaheim would add valuable draft picks to fuel their rebuilding efforts.
Dumoulin is in the final year of his two-year, $6.3 million contract with the Ducks. Known for his stellar defensive play and playoff experience, Dumoulin could fit into Toronto’s blue line as a second or third-pairing defenseman. With two Stanley Cup wins under his belt with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2016, 2017), Dumoulin offers the leadership and grit Toronto needs for a deep postseason run. This season, he has appeared in 40 games with Anaheim, recording 0 goals and 8 assists for 8 points.
Anaheim is expected to shop Dumoulin ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline, as they continue their rebuilding process. NHL insider David Pagnotta has reported that the Ducks are fielding offers for Dumoulin, as well as other players like forwards Brock McGinn and Robby Fabbri, who are in the final year of their contracts. Dumoulin, however, has a 10-team no-trade list and carries a $3.15 million cap hit. Teams such as the Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars, Ottawa Senators, and Winnipeg Jets are reportedly interested in acquiring the veteran defenseman, especially with the impending trade deadline.
With several teams looking to reinforce their blue lines for a playoff push, Dumoulin will be one of the most coveted defensemen available.
While the Maple Leafs’ primary focus has been on adding a third-line center, there is increasing momentum around the idea of bolstering the defense as well. NHL analyst Jonas Siegel from The Athletic argues that Toronto should target a defenseman to complete their lineup before the March 7 trade deadline. Despite having a strong first half of the season, Siegel believes the Leafs’ defense still lacks some consistency, particularly when it comes to pairing with Morgan Rielly. He suggested adding a player who could complement Rielly and perhaps help create a solid defensive duo alongside McCabe and Tanev, who have been one of the NHL’s best pairings this season.
With a history of addressing defensive needs at previous trade deadlines, the Maple Leafs could once again make a significant move to shore up their blue line as they aim for a championship.
