The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a challenging position as they approach the NHL trade deadline, facing significant salary cap constraints while looking to strengthen their roster. Concerns have arisen recently regarding the health of key players, particularly John Tavares, who left practice limping, and Auston Matthews, who has also missed time. With the team currently sitting at the top of the Atlantic Division, it is crucial for them to maintain their position to avoid facing tough matchups against teams like Florida and Tampa in the playoffs.

Brad Treliving and his management team are tasked with finding creative solutions to bolster the center position. Potential targets include players like Brock Nelson and Yanni Gourde, whose salaries present challenges for Toronto's cap situation. The absence of a first-round pick in this year's draft complicates matters further, as the team weighs the value of their second-round pick next year and considers whether to part with it for immediate help.