Leafs and Bruins fighting for same trade target

We all the Toronto Maple Leafs are thrilled that they won’t face off against the Boston Bruins in the first round of the postseason, thanks to this year’s realignment, however, they might have to on the trade market as we fast approach the April 12 deadline. 

On Tuesday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman revealed in this latest 31 Thoughts column that the Maple Leafs and Bruins are going after the same veteran forward for a boost up front and a leadership presence in the dressing room. To make things worse, it is believed the New York Islanders are also in on the same target. This is how Friedman puts it: 

“Sounds like New Jersey and Kyle Palmieri have begun conversations about his future. Nothing imminent, and I’m not making any predictions, but it’s underway. Could see Boston, the Islanders (assuming Anders Lee doesn’t return during the regular season) and Toronto for him.”

Palmieri’s name has surfaced more than once in trade chatter, but always ended up back with the Devils. Will it be the same scenario this time around or now that he is a pending unrestricted free agent he could be used as a rental for a contender. 

It remains to be seen what the Leafs and Bruins will be asked to give in return for the veteran forward. We will then see if one team acquires him or if Palmieri, who is from the area and loves playing for the Devils, will stay in Jersey. 

The Maple Leafs and Bruins might also have to fight for the same target when it comes to Nashville Predators’ Mattias Ekholm. Both teams are interested in the defenseman and could have to fight for that target as well. 

Exciting times ahead with the deadline just around the corner!