NHL Insider Reveals Toronto Maple Leafs' Plans For 2024 1st Round Pick

Elliotte Friedman reported today on 32 thoughts that the Leafs have made an offer for Flames defenseman Chris Tanev. The deal reportedly involves multiple draft picks. However, the Flames are reportedly hoping to get a 1st round pick for the 34-year-old.

For the Leafs, that may be a problem. Since Tanev is 34 and on an expiring contract, he will almost certainly be a rental for the Leafs this season should they acquire him. It has been reported that the Leafs do not want to trade another first round pick for a rental player. However, they are reportedly willing to move that pick for a more long-term addition.

One player that has reportedly caught the attention of Leafs general manager Brad Treliving is 25-year-old Sharks defender Mario Ferraro. Notably, Ferraro would not be a rental as he still has two years left on his current deal. Similarly, he is young enough to be part of the Leafs core going forward. According to David Pagnotta, the Leafs are willing to move their 1st round pick this year for the Sharks blueliner.

Pagnotta has been following the Sharks closely this season as he was also the first reported to note that the Sharks are willing to trade just about anyone on the current roster.

For the Sharks, adding another 1st round pick would help the team's rebuild. Giving up a player like Ferraro would certainly hurt in the short-term, but even he does not necessarily fit Mike Grier's long-term vision for the team. For the Leafs, they would be adding a young defenseman that fits perfectly into their competitive window. Be sure to stay tuned for updates on this story as we approach the trade deadline.