The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the hunt for some heft to bolster their defense this off-season, with GM Brad Treliving actively searching for big defensemen through both free agency and trades. Rumors are swirling around Treliving's interest in Nikita Zadorov, a pending unrestricted free agent from the Vancouver Canucks. If Zadorov doesn't ink a new deal with Vancouver by July 1, he could be a key target for the Leafs. Additionally, there's talk of re-signing Joel Edmundson, though he is intent on testing the free agent waters before making any commitments. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/TFP/status/1803774367161090556'> </a></blockquote></div> <h3>Maple Leafs looking to acquire tough defensemen</h3> On the trade front, the Leafs have been linked to Colton Parayko of the St. Louis Blues. However, Parayko's full no-movement clause adds a layer of complexity, as he would need to approve any trade. Treliving's interest in Parayko isn't new; it dates back to his tenure with the Calgary Flames. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/M_Meyer3/status/1787898029921403104'> </a></blockquote></div> The Leafs' financial flexibility is limited, with just over $18.83 million in available cap space for the 2024-25 season. This means strategic moves are crucial. Currently, the team is in contract negotiations with pending UFA forward Tyler Bertuzzi and is also discussing terms with Max Domi. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/rgross36/status/1802784995179667629'> </a></blockquote></div> While reinforcing the blueline is a primary focus, the Leafs are also considering the future of Mitch Marner. There's speculation that the team might entertain trade offers for Marner from a select few teams, adding another layer of intrigue to the off-season maneuvering. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/TLNdc/status/1803759711067541595'> </a></blockquote></div> In summary, the Leafs are gearing up for a dynamic off-season, balancing their desire for a stronger defense with the financial constraints and the potential reshuffling of key players. Fans can expect a series of strategic moves as Treliving aims to shape a formidable roster for the upcoming season. Source: The Fourth Period <a href='https://www.thefourthperiod.com/june-2024/maple-leafs-seeking-big-bodies-on-defence' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>MAPLE LEAFS SEEKING BIG BODIES ON DEFENCE</a>