Rumor: Maple Leafs To Acquire Shayne Gostisbehere

The trade rumors surrounding Shayne Gostisbehere are back in circulation. It was reported at the beginning of the season that he wanted to be traded out of Philadelphia and it seems that is now likely to occur. The Toronto Maple Leafs are seemingly close to finalizing a deal that would give Gostisbehere a change of scenery.

The Philadelphia Flyers are 3 points above The Toronto Maple Leafs in Eastern Conference, so why would they make this trade? The Maple Leafs are hoping to make some roster changes, particularly on defence. He is just 26 years old and he has had many productive seasons in the NHL, but this year has not been so kind. He's recorded just 5 goals and 7 assists, but there is still potential for him to bounce back.

The Maple Leafs are in the most need of defence in their quest to make the playoffs, and it is believed they're willing to pay accordingly. Gostisbehere has 3.5 years left on a contract with an AAV of $4.5 million, which is an extremely team friendly deal if he can play to his true potential.