On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Kristen Shilton: Maple Leafs GM Lou Lamoriello on their potential trade deadline plans: “I think you always know what you’d like to improve in. But it’s easier said that done. You need a partner to do it with, and then whatever the price is, it can’t be something going to put a hole in your team.”
On the Los Angeles Kings …
Dennis Bernstein: If the LA Kings can acquire a top-four defenseman with term left on his deal, would include Paul LaDue in the deal if need be. LaDue will be 26-years old at the start of next year.
On the Vancouver Canucks …
Mike Halford of The Athletic: Looking at some potential landing spots for pending UFA defenseman Erik Gudbranson: Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins, and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Florida Panthers seem more of an offseason move than at the deadline. Pierre LeBrun said the Washington Capitals could be looking for a veteran defenseman. The Pittsburgh Penguins could be another option.
Luke Fox of Sportsnet: Defenseman Erik Gudbranson on the trade rumors.
“ are part of it. I’ve been traded once, so if it was to happen again, I think I’d know how to deal with it,” Gudbranson told Sportsnet Saturday, motioning to the nameplates around the Vancouver dressing room.
“We’re together every single day. There’s a much bigger picture I’m worried about, and that’s winning hockey games. I’m able to compartmentalize it.”
The Canucks will likely look to move Gudbranson for draft picks and/or prospects.
The Toronto Maple Leafs could be in the market for a defenseman.
Other defensemen that could be made available at the trade deadline: Mike Green (DET), Luke Schenn (ARI), Alex Biega (VAN) and Chris Wideman (OTT).
Vancouver Province writer Patrick Johnston wrote last week that the Maple Leafs have offered prospect Andrew Nielson and a draft pick for a few months.