Ex-Lightning Defender Connected To Maple Leafs & Oilers

This former Lightning defenseman is being viewed as a possible target for the Maple Leafs and Oilers.

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Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman David Savard is one of the top trade candidates in the NHL right now. It is understandable, as he is in the final season of his contract on a Montreal Canadiens club that currently does not hold a playoff spot. When noting that he is a big right-shot defenseman who can play top-four minutes, interest in his services should be very high.

In a recent article for The Athletic, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun predicted that the Edmonton Oilers would acquire Savard. Meanwhile, fellow insider Chris Johnston sees the Toronto Maple Leafs as a match for the right-shot defenseman.

It would not be surprising if the Oilers pursued Savard as the deadline approached. Their right side needs a boost, and Savard could be a great addition because of it. He could work on either their second or third pairing and give them another option for their penalty kill.

It is easy to understand why Johnston considers the Leafs a possible match as well. With Timothy Liljegren being traded earlier this season and Jani Hakanpaa's injury trouble, bringing in a steady right-shot defenseman like Savard would be good for Toronto. However, as Johnston noted, one obstacle to a potential move is Toronto and Montreal's massive rivalry.

It will be interesting to see what happens with Savard. Perhaps the Bolts should consider reuniting with him. He was a solid part of their 2021 Stanley Cup championship run, and J.J. Moser is out long-term.