Maple Leafs Linked to Sharks $20 Million Forward as Trade Target

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly exploring potential moves to strengthen their center position as they battle through a season filled with injuries and inconsistent scoring depth.

With the team currently missing key players, including captain Auston Matthews, who has been sidelined since November 4, and Max Pacioretty,

who was recently placed on Injured Reserve, the need for added depth has become even more urgent.

One name that has emerged as a potential target for the Leafs is San Jose Sharks forward Mikael Granlund.

Granlund, 33, has been a standout for the Sharks, who have struggled this season. Since joining San Jose in 2023-24, Granlund has delivered impressive offensive numbers, leading the team with 48 assists and 60 points in 69 games last year.

So far this season, he has continued his solid play, recording 7 goals and 11 assists in just 18 games.

His performance has made him the top point scorer and leader in ice time among the Sharks’ forwards.

Granlund’s strong showing in San Jose is particularly notable given the Sharks’ ongoing difficulties this year.

With the team sitting near the bottom of the NHL standings, it seems likely that San Jose’s general manager, Mike Grier, could be open to trading the veteran center.

This aligns with the Maple Leafs’ search for a reliable forward who could help stabilize their lineup and provide the depth they need to make a strong postseason push.

Granlund’s situation is also appealing because he is in the final year of a four-year, $20 million contract, making him a relatively low-risk addition for any team looking to improve its roster.

Even if the trade doesn’t work out, his expiring contract could make him a more manageable asset compared to longer-term deals.

Given the Leafs’ need to solidify their depth and their previous dealings with the Sharks this season (which saw defenseman Timothy Liljegren traded to San Jose in exchange for Matt Benning),

this potential move could be a win-win for both teams. As the trade deadline approaches, the Maple Leafs will likely continue to explore options to bolster their roster and keep their playoff hopes alive.