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New Trade Partner for Toronto Maple Leafs Emerges


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Marshall Stinson
February 14, 2026  (4:45 PM)
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Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann (74) and Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) battle for a loose puck during the third period at Rogers Place
Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs will be very adamant on selling some key pieces before the trade deadline, and now the Carolina Hurricanes have emerged as buyers for either Bobby McMann or Oliver Ekman-Larsson.

The Hurricanes are a clear Stanley Cup contender and need some help producing offence from the blue line.

Carolina Hurricanes are in the market for defensemen.

Jeremy Tingly of Leafs Nation reported on the increasing interest of the Hurricanes in the two Leafs defensemen. It is unlikely they go after both, but one of them can easily bring the Leafs a first round pick in return. As there are not too many options in the market to acquire an offensive defensemen.
"If Tulsky is in fact looking to make a splash, which sounds like that’s totally the case, Treliving could fetch his 2026 first-round pick, plus a couple more pieces in this deal. Put it this way, Treliving won’t be making a deal involving both OEL and McMann without at least one first-rounder coming north."-Tingly

The Hurricanes will be looking to reach the top of the mountain this season and win the Stanley Cup, they are the best team in the Metropolitan Division, and they are usually pretty aggressive at the deadline and this season should prove to be no different.
"Carolina has been lacking offensive production from the backend, and are in the market for a top-four defenceman. OEL is one of the best options available based on his versatility, steady play on both sides of the puck, and more importantly, he’s earning just $3.5 million through the 2028 season. He does own a 16-team no-trade clause, but joining a contender is likely an appealing next step."-Tingly

The Maple Leafs will likely get many offers for both defensemen, the Hurricanes need to gear up for a bidding war if they want to acquire a key piece for their blue line.
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FEVRIER 14|246 ANSWERS
New Trade Partner for Toronto Maple Leafs Emerges

Will the Carolina Hurricanes acquire one of Bobby McMann or Oliver Ekman-Larsson from the Toronto Maple Leafs?

Yes13856.1 %
No10843.9 %
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