Ex-Lightning Star Open To Trade To Maple Leafs

In a recent article for The Athletic, NHL insiders Pierre LeBrun and Chris Johnston predicted where some of the NHL's top trade candidates could be moved. Former Tampa Bay Lightning forward Yanni Gourde was one specific player discussed.

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LeBrun had the Toronto Maple Leafs as his pick for Gourde, noting that they need a hard-nosed third-line center. In addition, he shared that he believes that Gourde "would have no issue with a move to the Leafs."

Gourde, 33, is in the final season of his contract and is a pending unrestricted free agent. Due to this and the Seattle Kraken not holding a playoff spot, there has naturally been trade speculation surrounding Gourde. This will only continue to be the case if he still does not have an extension once the deadline gets closer.

The Leafs could use more depth down the middle, so it would not be shocking if they made a push for Gourde. In addition, he is a proven winner, as his two Stanley Cups show. This could also make him an appealing option for the Maple Leafs, as they are trying to win one of their own.

Gourde has appeared in 32 games this season with the Kraken, where he has five goals, 15 points, 23 blocks, and 49 hits.

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