Trade Proposal Has Maple Leafs Landing Towering Defenseman in Three-Player Deal
The Toronto Maple Leafs continue their strategy of bolstering the size and strength of their defensive lineup, and a newly suggested trade proposal would add even more height to their back end.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM trade simulation tool, a fan-crafted trade scenario suggests the Maple Leafs acquire veteran defenseman Tyler Myers from the Vancouver Canucks.
Proposed Trade:
To Toronto:
- Tyler Myers
To Vancouver:
- Nick Robertson
- Pontus Holmberg
- 2026 third-round draft pick
This potential deal would significantly enhance Toronto’s blue line with the addition of Myers, a towering 6-foot-8 defenseman. Meanwhile, Vancouver would receive two young forwards and a future draft asset, aiding their roster development.
Myers, in the second year of a three-year contract worth $9 million, could slot into Toronto’s second or third defensive pairing. He brings a blend of reliable defense and modest offensive output — last season, he tallied 6 goals and 18 assists (24 points) in 71 games with Vancouver.
In exchange, the Maple Leafs would part with a third-round pick and two restricted free agent forwards. Robertson, who asked for a trade last season and may do so again, was a healthy scratch during the playoffs despite netting 15 goals in 69 regular-season games and scoring once in three postseason appearances.
Holmberg, who played an important role for Toronto during the regular season, also heads to Vancouver in this proposal. He has solid two-way capabilities and could slot into the Canucks’ middle-six forward group. Holmberg posted 7 goals and 12 assists for 19 points over 68 games.
Maple Leafs GM Focuses on Height and Physicality
Since taking the helm as general manager, Brad Treliving has prioritized building a larger and tougher defense corps to make the Leafs more challenging to face. He has already added tall, rugged blueliners like Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson via free agency, and traded for Brandon Carlo — all of whom fit his vision for a physically dominant defense.
“In today’s NHL, I value the size and structure of our defensive unit,” Treliving explained. “We still need to improve our zone exits and offensive output from the back end, but I like the core group. We’re not locked in — we’re open to adjustments.”
Myers would be a logical addition to this setup, offering more size and experience. He could potentially take over the role of Simon Benoit or even replace longtime Leaf Morgan Rielly if Toronto chooses to move on from him.
Leadership Remains Optimistic Despite Playoff Setback
Despite high hopes for a deep playoff push, the Maple Leafs were eliminated in the second round once again. In response, Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley expressed continued faith in the team’s leadership and direction.
“I believe in Brad, in Craig, and in the organization’s resources,” said Pelley. “As stewards of the most iconic hockey brand in the world, we owe it to our fans to win championships. We won’t stop working until we achieve that goal.”
Heading into the offseason, Toronto has roughly $25.7 million in salary cap space, but key forwards Mitch Marner and John Tavares are approaching free agency, adding complexity to the team’s future planning.
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