The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly expressing interest in acquiring defenseman Scott Mayfield from the New York Islanders as the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7. According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, the Maple Leafs “would love to get” Mayfield if Islanders’ general manager Lou Lamoriello decides to make him available.
Scott Mayfield, 32, is a formidable presence on the blue line, standing at 6’5” and weighing 215 pounds. He is a right-shot defender known for his penalty-killing abilities, shot-blocking, and physical style of play—attributes that align with the type of defenseman teams covet at the trade deadline. Mayfield is currently in the second year of a seven-year contract with an average annual value of $3.5 million, which includes a full no-trade clause until the summer, when it modifies to a 16-team no-trade list.
This season, Mayfield has averaged 17:37 minutes of ice time per game, contributing two goals and five assists over 42 games. His defensive reliability is highlighted by his team-leading +13 plus/minus rating on a squad with an overall -17 differential.
The Islanders, currently holding a 17-19-7 record, find themselves in 15th place in the Eastern Conference, seven points shy of a playoff spot. As the trade deadline nears, speculation grows about the Islanders potentially becoming sellers, with players like Mayfield, Brock Nelson, and Kyle Palmieri attracting interest from teams seeking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push.
For the Maple Leafs, acquiring Mayfield would address their need for a big, physical defenseman capable of strengthening their penalty kill and providing a steady presence on the back end. However, facilitating such a trade presents challenges. Toronto is currently tight against the salary cap, with approximately $1.3 million in cap space. To accommodate Mayfield’s $3.5 million cap hit, the Maple Leafs would need to negotiate salary retention from the Islanders or orchestrate corresponding moves to free up the necessary cap space.
Additionally, Mayfield’s full no-trade clause means he would need to approve any potential move. His willingness to waive this clause could depend on various factors, including the opportunity to join a playoff-contending team like the Maple Leafs.
As the March 7 trade deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid. The Islanders’ performance in the coming weeks will likely influence their strategy, determining whether they become sellers and make players like Mayfield available. For the Maple Leafs, any potential deal would require careful navigation of cap constraints and roster considerations. Fans and analysts alike will be monitoring developments closely as both teams weigh their options in the lead-up to the deadline.
With the NHL trade deadline fast approaching, the Toronto Maple Leafs are making headlines in the rumor mill. Recent reports suggest that the Leafs are eyeing a move for New York Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield, a veteran blueliner known for his physical play and defensive reliability. As Toronto looks to shore up its defense for a deep playoff run, could Mayfield be the missing piece?
Why Scott Mayfield?
Mayfield, 32, brings a tough, stay-at-home defensive presence—something the Leafs could use to balance their lineup. With Toronto’s defense occasionally struggling against high-powered offenses, adding Mayfield could provide the shutdown ability needed in crucial playoff moments.
What Would It Cost the Leafs?
The Islanders are still in the playoff hunt, so prying Mayfield away won’t be easy. The Leafs may need to part with a mid-round draft pick or a depth forward to make this deal happen. However, with their sights set on a deep postseason run, the front office may be willing to pull the trigger.
Final Thoughts
The trade buzz surrounding Mayfield is heating up, but will Toronto make a move before the deadline? Stay tuned as trade talks develop, and the Leafs push to solidify their roster for a potential Stanley Cup run.
Would you like any tweaks or additional details?
Leave a Reply