Darren Dreger has recently revealed that Leafs GM Brad Treliving will be going hard by looking to acquire a second or third-line centerman before the deadline. Speculation is ongoing as to what could happen, but one thing remains constant: the Toronto Maple Leafs want to win. General Manager Brad Treliving isn't rushing into a deal at this stage, choosing instead to consider his options. The Leafs have many avenues they could take, but their most glaring need is for a dependable third-line center, <a href='https://athlonsports.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/maple-leafs-trade-market-second-line-center-report' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>one that can anchor the Top 9</a>, help the penalty kill, and provide consistent playoff production. NHL insider Darren Dreger mentioned during the Leafs vs. Sabres game that Brad Treliving is in fact hunting for a 3C. «I suspect Brad Treliving will work hard to acquire a third-line center.» - Darren Dreger Sure, <a href='https://www.nhl.com/flames/player/nazem-kadri-8475172' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>Nazem Kadri</a>, and Ryan O'Reilly all sound really good, but the acquisition costs both in money and assets might simply be too rich for Toronto's blood. <div align='center' class='pl20 pr20'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/theScore/status/1868136549130334515'> </a></blockquote></div> Without a first-round pick, landing a marquee name would likely require parting with a top prospect like Easton Cowan. Even with salary retention, the Leafs lack significant NHL assets to facilitate a blockbuster trade. They don't necessarily need a headline-grabbing move, though. More affordable options like Noel Acciari, or Morgan Frost could fill the role effectively. <div align='center' class='pl20 pr20'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/HockeyDaily365/status/1844966615655264319'> </a></blockquote></div> Nick Robertson's elevated play, including his excellent performance against Buffalo, <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl-team/toronto-maple-leafs/nhl-reporter-reveals-leafs-nick-robertson-could-be-traded-after-disappointing-two-months' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>likely increased his trade value and made him a viable asset</a> should the Leafs decide to move him. Toronto has the pieces for a deep playoff run, but securing a dependable, defensively solid third-line center could make all the difference. With time still on his side, Treliving might yet have a strategic move in store.