NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs Could Add Sharks Star Forward As Rental

As the Toronto Maple Leafs have assets and cap space available to make a big move and push deeper into the playoffs this season, Timo Meier is on their radar. He will be more expensive than most of the other potential trade candidates out there, but the Maple Leafs would also have team control after the season.

Elliotte Friedman brought up the possibility that Toronto adds Meier for the playoffs and flips him in the summer for assets. It wouldn't be quite as many assets back as they would have to give up, but they could then find a team that Meier is willing to sign with long-term. The Maple Leafs don't have the cap space available to give him anywhere close to what he wants on his next contract.

Meier is the perfect type of player for the playoffs. He plays a hard and physical game combined with a shoot-first mentality that transfers to a lot of goals. The Maple Leafs are looking for a top-six forward and Meier is their best option. With his RFA status, there is a lot less risk in acquiring him than there has been for rentals at past deadlines. The team also has the best opportunity to add a player of this calibre for the first time in a long time. They are going to need something to push them over the top to beat the once again powerhouse teams in their division.