Maple Leafs rumors: Drew Doughty says he, others want to play in Toronto

In a recent interview, Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty admitted he would love to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the NHL’s most historic franchises. They are one of the Original Six teams. Of those teams, perhaps only the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings have a more storied history than the Leafs. Moreover, Toronto is like the sun, the center of the NHL universe. Obviously, this appeals to some players. Including 2015-16 Norris Trophy winner Drew Doughty.

Maple Leafs fans have heard this before and been heartbroken. Most recently by Steven Stamkos (though one could argue it was for the best). However, this time it feels different. The Leafs are building an impressive team. Through smart trades and drafting, Toronto has an offense capable of outscoring just about anyone.

There’s just one problem – the Maple Leafs don’t have much of a defense. Morgan Rielly and Jake Gardiner are great, but Toronto lacks a true number one defenseman. Finding one would turn them into immediate Stanley Cup contenders. Doughty is unquestionably an elite number one defenseman.

He becomes a free agent in two seasons. Because Toronto is nuts about hockey, expect to hear the Doughty to Leafs rumors until it either happens or is no longer plausible. However, Mike Babcock and company must be patient. Go after him in free agency so you don’t have to give up assets to get him. It’s hard to fathom a Doughty trade that wouldn’t involve Toronto sending at least one of William Nylander and Mitch Marner to the Los Angeles Kings.

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So far, the Leafs have been very patient, which should be applauded. By now, the old Maple Leafs would have screwed everything up by robbing Peter to pay Paul (giving up Nylander and/or Marner to get a defenseman). However, the new ones are practicing patience and being smart.