Rumor: 4 defensemen currently on the Maple Leafs' radar.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have all the scoring punch they could ever want in their lineup but as time as worn on this season and as games have taken a toll on members of the Maple Leafs roster it has become more and more evident that they need significant help on the back end. The Leafs have struggled defensively and the serious injuries to both veteran defenseman Jake Muzzin and long time Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly have only exacerbated that problem. Add to that the fact the Leafs could also used an improved option at backup goaltender and it seems very likely that they will be one of the more active teams ahead of the 2020 National Hockey League trade deadline.

In a recent article for The Athletic, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun took a look at the moves the Leafs could potentially make ahead of that deadline, and his focus was entirely on defensemen. LeBrun acknowledged that the Leafs could use an upgrade in goal and even acknowledged the most discussed rumor surrounding Rangers goaltender Aleksandar Georgiev, however he believes that the asking price will put the Leafs out of the running in that particular case. Instead LeBrun named 4 defensemen he believes could be on the Leafs radar, and it is fair to say that some of these names are more interesting than others.

#1 Alec Martinez.

One of the most common rumors regarding the Leafs and it makes sense given the fact that Kyle Dubas acquired Jake Muzzin from the Los Angeles Kings not so long ago. Martinez currently still has time on his deal as well so that would mean he would not be a pure rental, however LeBrun believes that the Leafs have not shown any interest in Martinez yet in spite of the rumors.

#2 Matt Dumba.

Almost certainly the most appealing name on this list, Dumba would be a long term investment for the Leafs given that he has 3 years remaining on his deal. I don't need to sing the virtues of Dumba, however LeBrun believes that this one would cost the Leafs at least forward Kasperi Kapanen and potentially another asset as well, a price that Dubas would have to seriously consider before paying.

#3 T.J. Brodie.

This one seems like a long shot given that Brodie reportedly has the Maple Leafs on his no trade list, however LeBrun believes he could be persuaded to waive that trade protection given the fact that the Leafs have previously shown interest in him. Again this one seems unlikely, but LeBrun believes it can be done. 

#4 Josh Manson.

Another defenseman with term and this time at an even more manageable cap hit of just over $4 million per season. The Ducks season is all but over and if the Leafs can entice them enough to give up Mason he would certainly be a very viable option.