TSN Analyst thinks the Leafs should pull off a blockbuster trade with the Blues

A former Toronto Maple Leaf and current TSN analyst made a bold suggestion tonight on SportsCenter. Mike Johnson suggested the Leafs should take a run at acquiring St. Louis Blues center and 2019 Conne Smythe winner Ryan O'Reilly - that's if St. Louis chooses to sell this season.

The Blues have played 11 games thus far this year, posting a record of 3 wins and 8 losses, good for last place in the Western Conference. Of course, the Blues were also last place in 2019, before going on a historic run in which they won the Stanley Cup. That said, it feels unlikely that happens twice.

Johnson admitted that the move might sound a bit greedy, but cited the Leafs' lack of offensive depth. He went on to say how good a 1-2-3 punch up the middle of Matthews-Tavares-O'Reilly would be. Aside from Johnson's idea about a 1-2-3 punch up the middle, utilizing O'Reilly as the team's 2C and shifting Tavares over to the wing could also have its advantages.

Without question, O'Reilly would be a great add to any team. However, one obvious issue here seems to be the salary cap. But if Leafs defensemen Jake Muzzin does not plan on returning due to his injuries, that would free up $5.625 million on the cap. O'Reilly is in the last year of a contract, and carries a cap hit of $7.5 million. Meaning if the Blues retained some of that salary, the Leafs could pull off a deal of this magnitude.


The other factor here to consider has to be acquisition cost. Remember a few years ago, the Leafs traded a first round draft pick and two fourth rounders in order to acquire gritty forward Nick Foligno. One would have to imagine O'Reilly would go for more than that, especially if there is salary retention to help the Leafs with their current cap situation.

The truth is, the price may simply be too high. But given O'Reilly's playoff pedigree, it is certainly worth Kyle Dubas picking up a phone and inquiring.