Maple Leafs Officially Targeting Former First-Round Pick from Rival Canadian Team

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, Sean Monahan of the Montreal Canadiens emerges as a noteworthy target. A former Calgary Flames first-round pick, Monahan experienced a decline in his performance from 2019-2020 to 2021-22 due to injuries but has recently rejuvenated his career in Montreal.

Frank Seravalli from Daily Faceoff suggests that Monahan is a coveted trade asset for teams seeking a center, potentially fetching a first-round pick. Monahan's tenure with the Flames was marked by impressive stats, scoring 150 goals and 329 points over five seasons. However, his subsequent three seasons saw a dip in form, totaling 40 goals and 99 points.

The Canadiens acquired Monahan in 2022 along with a conditional first-round pick in 2025, a move by the Flames to create salary cap space for Nazem Kadri. In Montreal, Monahan has rediscovered his scoring ability, netting 17 goals and 48 points, including 31 points this season.

Seravalli notes the Toronto Maple Leafs as a potential destination for Monahan, highlighting his familiarity with GM Brad Treliving from his Flames days. Monahan could bolster the Leafs' center depth behind Auston Matthews and John Tavares.

Recent trades in the NHL, such as Andrew Copp to the New York Rangers and Barclay Goodrow to Tampa Bay, involving first-round picks, indicate that Monahan's high asking price is realistic. The Maple Leafs, lacking second-round picks in the next three seasons and a 2025 first-rounder, could benefit from Monahan's veteran presence and two-way play. However, they must consider the implications of trading draft picks and whether Montreal would deal with a division rival.

Monahan's low cap hit of $1.985 million makes him an attractive option. If acquired, he would enhance the Leafs' bottom-six and add value with his affordable contract.