NHL Rumors: 3 Maple Leafs Trade Candidates

The Toronto Maple Leafs are barely keeping their heads above water. The team is decimated with injuries on defense and have some forwards up front who are under performing. The Leafs big guns of William Nylander, Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner and John Tavares are once again carrying them this season, along with some steady goaltending. 

GM Kyle Dubas has been trying to move some depth forwards early on this season, but with no luck. They finally landed another defenseman in a deal with the Arizona Coyotes recently, and you can expect more moves to come from Toronto. Here's three Maple Leafs who could be on their way out this season:

Pierre Engvall

From second-line left wing to third-line center, to now playing on the team's fourth line, Pierre Engvall has been given every chance to succeed this season. His numbers haven't been there this season as he's only tallied two goals and five points in 21 games. The team had hopes he'd hit 20 goals this season and now he's trying to turn himself into a defensive specialist. Unfortunately, the Maple Leafs need more secondary scoring and could look to move on from the 6-foot-5 forward, who is a pending free agent.

Alexander Kerfoot

Another one of the Maple Leafs struggling forwards, Alexander Kerfoot hasn't scored in ages. The versatile forward has only one goal in 22 games this season and at $3.5 million against the cap, things aren't adding up. Kerfoot has moved up and down the lineup and can't seem to find a consistent role in Toronto. With 47 even strength points last season, and his ability to play all three forward positions, there's likely a trade market still for Kerfoot. Something the Maple Leafs need to look into. 

Wayne Simmonds

Another struggling forward in Toronto, Wayne Simmonds has been on the trade block since training camp. He hasn't seen regular playing time and has been waived multiple times this season. So far, no trade, however this could all change with one phone call. Expect to see the Maple Leafs continue to shop Simmonds and perhaps they add a sweetener to acquire some much-needed secondary scoring or another defenseman. 

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports