Report: Maple Leafs GM John Chayka Looking To Remain Aggressive On Trade Market

The Toronto Maple Leafs made an aggressive trade on Monday, acquiring star forward Kirill Marchenko from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a package deal that sent Matthew Knies the other way.

It was a bold move to depart from a young player like Knies, who is locked in through 2030-31 on a contract that pays him $7.75 million per year. Not to mention, he carries a very unique skill set as a power forward, which isn't so common at his level in the NHL.

Nonetheless, the move was made, and Toronto gave up quality to get a quality player in Marchenko.

Following that move, TSN's Insider Trading reported that the Maple Leafs and GM John Chayka may not be done making aggressive moves in the trade market.

"The Leafs feel, even after giving up Matthew Knies, who they viewed as their best young trade chip, that they still have other futures that they can move for 'help now' solutions," Chris Johnston reported.

He added that Toronto has a 2027 first-round pick from the Colorado Avalanche that came in the Nic Roy trade at last year's trade deadline. Prospects and other youngsters may also be in play, which would include the likes of Easton Cowan and Ben Danford, among others.

"I think they'll be looking to upgrade, even in these early days of the season," Johnston added. 

Johnston also mentioned keeping an eye on the Maple Leafs' defense as a potential area to upgrade. He noted that with Emil Andrae sent to the Blue Jackets in order to help the salary cap situation on the deal, there is a potential hole to fill.

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