Photo Credit: Jeff Curry- USA Today Sports

With the trade deadline right around the corner, the Toronto Maple Leafs wasted no time making their first significant move, sending out Mikhail Abramov, Adam Gaudette, a 2023 first-round pick, a 2023 3rd-round pick, and a 2024 second-round pick to the St.Louis Blues. They also sent their 2025 fourth-round pick to the Minnesota Wild. In return, Toronto receives; Ryan O’Reilly who is retained at 75% (50% STL, 25% MIN), Noel Acciari from St.Louis, and prospect Josh Pillar from Minnesota. Here is what Leafs line-up may look like now.

Despite having a down year, O'Reilly has proven to be one of the best centers in the NHL. In 2018/2019, he won the Conn Smythe and the Frank J. Selke en route to leading the Blues to a historic end of the regular season and a Stanley Cup championship. He will add leadership and a boost to the Leafs forward depth. 

Joining him immediately is Noel Acciari, a 31-year-old eight-year NHL veteran. He is not a flashy player, but he did crack the 20-goal mark with the Florida Panthers in the 2019/2020 season despite only playing 62 games. He immediately adds experience as he slots into a bottom-six role. He may also see time on the penalty kill. 

Josh Pillar is a prospect playing in the CHL. Despite playing in minimal games in his junior career, the 2002-born right winger has impressive numbers. However, for now, Leafs fans can see him as nothing more than a sweetener, as it is unlikely he will suit up in the blue and white any time soon. 

With these players coming in, you may think the cap-pressed Leafs are done. However, we think they are not. After being retained in the deal, the Leafs added just over 3 million dollars to their payroll. Meaning that there could be more to come before the deadline closes. 

• Brent Clemmer- Olde City Sports Network/ The 6ixth Man

• Photo Credit- St. Louis AP