2 Maple Leafs Named Trade Candidates For Possible Upgrades

The Toronto Maple Leafs are not in a great spot behind the pack in the Eastern Conference and a lot of things just aren't quite right this season. Between injuries, the defensive system, and players needing to play better or step up, there is a lot that needs to change.

The Maple Leafs are expected to be in the playoffs every season and there are a ton of eyes on them before even factoring in that it is the first season without Mitch Marner after tons of criticism. Trades have surrounded the team throughout the summer and to start this season, but with how the season has gone, the likelihood is rising.

David Pagnotta said, "If they really up their efforts to try to bring in somebody that can...stabilize that top-6, you're probably going to hear names like Max Domi and Brandon Carlo. Those are two names that have been floated out recently."

There is the belief that Toronto has buyer's remorse for Carlo, who has the worst Corsi For % and expected Goals For % among the defensemen of the Maple Leafs and has just two assists in 18 games. He just hasn't fit right in Toronto, going back to last season.

Domi also hasn't played at the level expected of him and he has played in different roles. But with only three goals and six points this season, he needs to elevate his game, produce more points, and just play more grittily like he can when his game is on.

It's not exactly going to be too easy moving either, but both Carlo and Domi aren't useless and can contribute to a team, maybe even better in a new environment than on the Maple Leafs. Carlo has another year left on his deal at $3.485 million AAV and Domi has two more years left at $3.75 million AAV. Both have the cap hits that would be required to be moved if a significant upgrade were to be acquired.