Rumor: A top-6 forward to be traded by the Maple Leafs?

A controversial Toronto journalist has called for a bold move from Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving.

Forward Tyler Bertuzzi took a bit of a gamble on himself this summer when he agreed to sign a 1 year deal with the Maple Leafs when it became clear that, as a free agent on the open market, he would not receive the type of dollars he was hoping to see on a long term type of contract.

Unfortunately for Bertuzzi that gamble hasn't really paid off through his first 52 games of the season. Bertuzzi has recorded 7 goals and 15 assists for a total of 22 points so far, and it's clear the Maple Leafs were expecting more from the former 30 goal scorer with him being slotted into the team's top 6. For the first time since Bertuzzi signed that deal however, there is now talk of him potentially being moved.

That talk comes from controversial Toronto columnist Steve Simmons, who in his recent Sunday Notes column suggested that Bertuzzi should be utilized as an asset ahead of the National Hockey League's upcoming trade deadline.

From Simmons:

Keefe continues to talk up Tyler Bertuzzi and all that he can do for the Leafs. Which is nice. But if I’m GM Brad Treliving, I’m considering buying and selling at the trade deadline.

While Simmons' suggestion is one that fans frustrated with Bertuzzi's play this season may welcome, it will be much easier said than done for Treliving. Not only is moving a player with a cap hit of $5.5 million in-season very difficult, but Bertuzzi would also have the power to veto any potential deals made by Treliving. Bertuzzi has a full no movement clause as a part of his contract, despite it only being a 1 year deal, giving him full control over the Maple Leafs' ability to trade him or even put him on waivers.

Would you consider trading Bertuzzi before the deadline? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.