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Five NHL Defensemen The Maple Leafs Could Target In A Trade With Chris Tanev Injured

The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown strong offensive play early in the 2026-27 NHL season, including a dramatic 3-0 comeback win against the Nashville Predators in overtime and a near-upset against the Utah Mammoth. However, their defense has struggled with reliability, particularly after Chris Tanev’s injury, which has exposed vulnerabilities in a unit already dealing with health concerns.

While the team plans to address short-term needs internally, general manager John Chayka may explore upgrades down the line, leveraging mid-tier prospects, future draft picks—including a conditional first-rounder in 2027 from the Colorado Avalanche—and their 2029 first-round selection. With limited high-value assets available, the Leafs are unlikely to pursue a top-pairing defenseman but could target a capable second-pairing option to bolster their blue line.

Among potential targets, Brenden Dillon of the New Jersey Devils stands out as a low-cost option, despite his age and declining ice time. Dillon, a physical defenseman with a strong penalty-killing presence, carries a $4 million cap hit but could be acquired for minimal assets due to his contract’s final year and reduced role.

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