Rumor: Toronto Maple Leafs Look To Add 1 Round Draft Pick Before Trade Deadline

The Toronto Maple Leafs are emerging as strong contenders to acquire former #1 overall pick and Buffalo Sabres defenseman, Erik Johnson, as the NHL trade deadline approaches.

Their primary need is a top defenseman, and according to Michael Augello of The Hockey News, the Leafs have shown significant interest in Johnson. The Leafs' scouting presence at Sabres games and GM Brad Treliving's visit to Buffalo underscore their serious consideration for Johnson. However, acquiring him won't be straightforward.

The Leafs would need Buffalo to retain part of Johnson's salary and potentially offer more in return than Western teams like Vegas and Colorado, due to geographical and conference competition.

Despite Johnson's declining ice time and performance in a struggling Sabres lineup, his experience with winning teams like the Avalanche suggests a potential for resurgence in Toronto.

The Leafs must weigh the risks carefully; while Johnson could thrive in a new environment, an overestimation of his impact relative to the cost could lead to regret. The trade's success hinges on Johnson's ability to adapt and improve within the Maple Leafs' system, making it a gamble with potentially high rewards or costly pitfalls.