Maple Leafs Defenceman Becoming Trade Candidate
Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Philippe Myers is caught in a numbers game, and it could lead to a preseason trade.
The 29-year-old blueliner has watched general manager John Chayka reshape the Leafs defense core this summer, and unfortunately for Myers, it's pushed him further down the depth chart. While the team added Emil Andrae and Darren Raddysh, they've also re-signed Troy Stecher and added Nick Blankenburg on a professional tryout agreement. Toronto also has top prospect Ben Danford, a fellow righty, who had a sensational Calder Cup championship run last season with the AHL's Toronto Marlies, and looks ready to make the jump.
Ben Danford is in Group 1 in place of Morgan Rielly over several D with NHL experience, including Philippe Myers.
— Steve “Dangle” Glynn (@Steve_Dangle) September 17, 2026
Nick Blankenburg with Group 1. Bo Groulx with Group 2. https://t.co/wNfJ7GroiT
The 6-foot-5 Myers is entering the final season of his contract, set to earn $850,000, and doesn't own any trade protection. He's a prime trade candidate to be moved as there's several teams who could be interested in the right-handed journeyman.
The Anaheim Ducks, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and Philadelphia Flyers are all expected to have various degrees of interest in Myers, with the Ducks the most likely trade destination. Anaheim is as thin as anyone on the blueline, and adding some experience in Myers could help bolster their blueline.
Myers appeared in 39 games for the Maple Leafs last season, chipping in with two assists. He leaves a lot of 'what if' to his game, as he's a smooth-skating big-bodied defenceman, but unfortunately hasn't been able to piece together consistent production.
Now, it's a numbers game, and Myers will be on the outside looking in, and could eventually be traded before the start of next season.