Following the trade of Nikita Zadorov to the Vancouver Canucks on Nov. 30, 2023, the Toronto Maple Leafs are actively exploring alternative options for robust defense. With players like Chris Tanev from the Calgary Flames on the radar, the Maple Leafs are considering a reunion with Ilya Lyubushkin to add an extra layer of grit.
Maple Leafs Familiarity with Lyubushkin
The Maple Leafs had a previous stint with Lyubushkin during the 2021–22 season when he was part of the Arizona Coyotes. On Feb. 19, 2022, the Coyotes and Maple Leafs engaged in a trade that sent Lyubushkin and Ryan Dzingel to Toronto in exchange for Nick Ritchie and a choice of their third-round selection in 2023 or second-round selection in 2025. Lyubushkin played 31 games with the Maple Leafs, showcasing his gritty style with two goals, four assists, 32 blocks, and 93 hits.
Lyubushkin played a crucial role alongside Morgan Rielly on the top pairing, displaying chemistry and complementing Rielly’s offensive prowess. Now, with the Maple Leafs seeking to strengthen their defensive lineup, a potential reunion with Lyubushkin is under consideration, this time from the Anaheim Ducks organization.
Ducks’ Asking Price
Lyubushkin, a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) with a $2.75 million cap hit, presents a viable option for the Maple Leafs, especially if John Klingberg’s $4.15 million cap hit remains on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). The Ducks might entertain the idea of retaining up to 50% of Lyubushkin’s salary, but such a move would increase the trade price.
If the Maple Leafs could negotiate a 50% salary retention, bringing Lyubushkin’s cap hit down to $1.35 million, potential trade scenarios could involve draft picks, prospects, or a combination of both. The article suggests two mock trade scenarios reflecting deals with and without salary retention.
Mock Trade #1
– Toronto Maple Leafs receive: Ilya Lyubushkin
– Anaheim Ducks receive: 2026 Third Round Pick & Seventh Round Pick
This trade is influenced by the recent Zadorov trade to the Canucks, involving two picks without salary retention. The suggested picks aim to align with the compensation structure of the Zadorov trade.
Mock Trade #2
– Toronto Maple Leafs receive: Ilya Lyubushkin (50% salary retention)
– Anaheim Ducks receive: Max Lajoie, 2026 Third Round Pick & 2025 Fifth Round Pick
This scenario considers a 50% salary retention, lowering Lyubushkin’s cap hit. The trade includes a prospect, Max Lajoie, offering the Ducks a potential replacement for Lyubushkin.
Conclusion
While Lyubushkin might not bring the same physicality as Zadorov, his addition to the Maple Leafs’ defensive roster could enhance their playoff competitiveness. With negotiations underway, Leafs’ GM Brad Treliving’s strategic moves could redefine the team’s defensive strength, aligning with Leafs Nation’s aspirations for a successful playoff run.