Maple Leafs interested in top Russian talent

As the NHL Trade Deadline approaches, there are plenty of eyes on the Toronto Maple Leafs and 1st year general manager Brad Treliving on what they could do in order to bolster their lineup in an effort to build off last year's Round 1 playoff victory, their first since 2004. 

But could they also be interested in bringing aboard a top Russian talent from overseas for next year? According to player agent Alexander Chernykh, the Leafs are interested in his client Maxim Tsyplakov, who is currently playing in the KHL. 

For those who are unfamiliar with him, take a look below at the scouting report via Scott Wheeler of The Athletic: 

“Big, strong, athletic kid. Holds pucks well. Strong skater. Good snap shot and wrist shot (likes the curl-and-drag). Likes to shoot it. Straight-line type. Direct. Attacks into defenders for his shot. Engaged physically. What you see is what you get. Not a layers/problem-solver type.”

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