Maple Leafs, Stamkos Rumours Persist: 'That one might have legs'

It's no secret that the Toronto Maple Leafs have been searching far and wide for a top-6 forward, and despite their goal-scoring sitting top-5 in the NHL to start the season, they are reportedly still making an aggressive push.

According to Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects, the Leafs have "more than kicked tires" on Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos with the Western Conference club in a state of disarray.

Additionally, Robinson added that the Leafs are in the market for a centre that can make plays off the wing, and he truly believes that this rumour "might have legs". While nothing is imminent right now, it's something that could be revisited later on in the season.

The major sticking point in any trade involving Stamkos is going to be his contract. The former Tampa Bay Lightning captain signed with Nashville on a 4-year deal that holds a cap hit of $8 million. His contract also includes a full no-movement clause, but considering the state of the Predators, he could want out as soon as possible.

The Leafs have limited cap space right now, meaning any trade involving Stamkos would have to include retained salary and a few salary fillers going to other way, on top of an NHL-ready forward.

In his prime, Stamkos was one of the purest goal scorers in the league, but it has certainly been a struggle since moving out of Tampa Bay. He scored 27 goals and 53 points in 82 games last year.

He is only a couple of years removed from collecting 116 goals and 271 points in a three-year stretch preceding his free agency, so there's definitely some juice left in the tank.

The Leafs could definitely use his leadership, veteran experience, and top-6 offensive production, and it does sound like they're seriously considering a move. However, it's going to be a bit tricky with a full NMC to contend with, as well as the aforementioned $8 million cap hit.