NHL trade rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs eyeing 5,500,000 Anaheim Ducks defenseman

NHL exchange tales: A defenseman from the Anaheim Ducks is being eyed by the Toronto Maple Leafs for $5,500,000. Ilya Lyubushkin, a defenseman for the Anaheim Ducks, is one name that has been mentioned in trade rumors. According to reports, the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the teams that are interested in acquiring the skilled blue liner.

Lyubushkin, who inked a two-year, $5,500,000 contract with the Bison Sabers on July 13, 2022, was exchanged to the Ducks in August. He has turned into a point of convergence of exchange talks because of his strong cautious capacities. The agreement conveys a sensible cap hit of $2,750,000, making him an alluring objective for groups hoping to support their cautious profundity.

As per David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Anaheim Ducks, presently mulling at the lower part of the Pacific Division standing, have become potential exchange accomplices for groups on the chase after protective ability. The Toronto Maple Leafs, specifically, are looking at Ilya Lyubushkin and his reasonable cap hit as they try to improve their protective corps.

David Pagnotta said:

“The Toronto Maple Leafs are among the groups taking a gander at defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin and his $2.75 million cap hit.”

The Ducks, who are facing a difficult season, also have other assets that could be traded. Unrestricted free agents Sam Carrick and forwards Adam Henrique ($5.825 million) and Jakob Silfverberg ($5.25 million) are pending. Teams interested in Henrique and Silfverberg might think about whether the Ducks could keep some of their salary to make deals easier.

The Ducks roster includes notable players, including Lyubushkin, who might draw interest from other teams. Frank Vatrano, who is having a career year, has no trade protection and has $3.65 million for one more year.

The recent on-ice performance of Ilya Lyubushkin adds another layer to the trade discussions. He had an assist, two hits, two blocked shots, and two penalty minutes in the Rangers’ 5-1 defeat. This creation finished a point dry season enduring more than a month, during which he went 14 games without a point, enrolling a short 12 rating, 30 hits and 36 hindered shots.

Given that Lyubushkin’s role primarily focuses on maintaining a strong defensive presence, his inability to score is not surprising. He is known for his defensive prowess.

Lyubushkin brings a well-rounded defensive skill set to the table with three assists, 73 blocks, 54 hits, 24 penalty minutes, 22 shots on goal, and a minus-10 rating over 29 appearances. As exchange talks progress, the Toronto Maple Leafs and other intrigued groups will gauge the likely advantages of gaining this carefully prepared NHL defenseman.