NHL Insider reveals the likely timeline for the Maple Leafs to make a trade for a defender

Since becoming an NHL General Manager, Brad Treliving has always put a priority on puck and strong puck moving defensemen. It's why during his tenure in Calgary he made moves to acquire Dougie Hamilton, Noah Hanifin and Nikita Zadorov. When Treliving accepted the job in Toronto, it came with the understanding that defense hadn't been a priority for the previous regime. While many expected Treliving's to overhaul the defense this summer, he instead decided to bide his time.

Over the last month rumors have surfaced that Treliving has been looking to make a major move and acquire a couple of his former players. Rumors have continued to link the Leafs to both Chris Tanev and Nikita Zadorov. The biggest hang up for the Leafs continues to be cap space.

Today NHL Insider Darren Dreger revealed that the Leafs may once again find some cap space. According to Dreger, in October John Klingberg tweaked a nagging that has been bugging him throughout his career. Now it appears Klingberg and his $4,150,000 salary are headed directly towards the long-term injury reserve.




Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet also added that the Leafs will definitely have some clarity this week and could look to a make a move before their first game back in North America on Friday.



It seems like a foregone conclusion the Leafs make a move for a defender, but it now appears the timeline for a move is much clearer.