Sleepless in Seattle: A lethargic performance against Kraken should accelerate the Leafs’ attempt to rebuild

Maccelli later committed a terrible turnover that led directly to the second of Shane Wright’s two goals on the night in the third period, and head coach Craig Berube was furious with the bench. Maccelli-Tavares-Knies were on the ice for three goals against and were the worst line on another terrible night for the Maple Leafs, though few players are exempt from criticism. Wright could be an attractive trade candidate for the Maple Leafs and for one night, his confidence was seemingly restored and he lived up to his draft billing.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson will also have real trade value, and the Maple Leafs would be wise to find a trade partner who could certainly benefit from the 34-year-old’s resurgent form. Ekman-Larsson has been the Maple Leafs’ best defenseman all year and by all accounts enjoys playing in Toronto, but right now he has much more value to a contending team than to a rapidly declining club on the move. Toronto heavily controlled shot attempts when Ekman-Larsson was on the ice, which may not be helpful in the context of a single game, but it does appeal to the idea that he might be able to return a first-round pick before the deadline.

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