Leafs Shift to Seller Mode, Laughton, McMann, Stetcher in Trade Buzz

0:00It's March 2nd for the NHL. Let's get into it. Follow and subscribe for more Teen News every day. The Toronto Maple Leafs are shifting into Seller mode as the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches. For nearly a decade, they've chased the Stanley Cup with stars like Austin Matthews leading the way. This season though, they've slipped badly, sitting eight points out of a playout spot with just 22 gains remaining. The team feels the pain from losing Mitch Marner more than expected, leading to this regression. It's a tough spot, but Toronto has assets with real trade value that could bring back strong returns like draft picks or prospects. Fans and analysts see it as a smart pivot to rebuild for the future. Contenders around the league are already circling, knowing the Leafs can turn lemons into lemonade by moving the right pieces without tanking. Completely. One prime candidate is forward, Scott Lafton, a 31-year-old middle-six guy with strong defensive skills and a low cap hit of $1.5 million.

1:03Despite a slow start in Toronto, teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Carolina Hurricanes could grab him for a draft pick before his deal expires. Meanwhile, look for buzz around Bobby McMahon and veteran defender Troy Stetcher, too. Make man's netting goals alongside top liners, and Stetcher's bounced around enough to fit anywhere needing blue line help. Expect plenty of calls coming in soon. This episode is supported by our sponsor, C Details in the Description. It is a pillow that plays your podcasts and music without earbuds.