What Would a McDavid to the Maple Leafs Trade Look Like? – The Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

It’s the kind of idea that could shake the NHL to its core — Connor McDavid, arguably the best hockey player on the planet, being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Leafs fans are clinging to the idea that it’s possible. They have been for years, and when McDavid spoke at the end-of-season availability and noted that he needed to do what’s best for his family, speculation and conjecture ramped up to another level.

The idea, still far from reality, has been debated and discussed by almost every Toronto-based media outlet, including the SDPN podcast, Sportsnet shows, TSN, and more. Some have gone so far as to suggest that Toronto prepare cap space for a potential McDavid signing in the 2026-27 season. Their advice? Don’t box yourself in this offseason with long-term contracts. Leave flexibility. Because if McDavid doesn’t re-sign with the Edmonton Oilers, the Leafs might want to be the team ready to pounce.

A McDavid Trade Is Far More Realistic, Even If That’s Still a Long Shot

Technically, anything is possible. McDavid himself acknowledged the complicated nature of his future when asked, saying, “Ultimately… still need to do what’s best for me and my family… but of course there is unfinished business here [in Edmonton].”

That unfinished business might not be enough if the Oilers once again fall short of a Stanley Cup or McDavid feels the Oilers are getting farther away from winning it all than they are closer. With just one season left on McDavid’s contract, Edmonton may find themselves faced with the nightmare scenario: losing their franchise player for nothing in free agency. As such, a trade would be the smarter move if they get the sense he’s ready to leave.

Related: McDavid’s Message on Contract Extension Should Turn Heads

This would mean opening the door to trade talks as early as next season, and the Leafs, assuming they want a shot at McDavid, would have to get involved. The Maple Leafs — despite what many of their fans believe — are not a shoo-in for McDavid if he departs the Oilers. He wants to win. He’ll consider his options and choose where the opportunity is most likely to arise. If he reaches free agency, all bets are off, even if Toronto stands a better chance than some.

What Would a Trade to Toronto Look Like?

So, what would it actually take for Toronto to land McDavid in a blockbuster trade?

First off, the Maple Leafs would need to pay — heavily. This is…