Maple Leafs suddenly facing important decision as new deadline is implemented

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been engaged in talks with a number of teams this year on a number of potential trade candidates. Perhaps one of the most intriguing names they've been connected to is Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson.

A skilled offensive defenseman, there's no question that Andersson's mobility, puck movement, and power play abilities would be welcome in Toronto. The tough part about getting a deal like this done has been the infamous "Toronto tax".

The Flames still reportedly hold a grudge against Brad Treliving, who stepped away from the organization to move onto bigger and better things, taking the job in Toronto to replace the departing Kyle Dubas. Ever since, the price for the Leafs to do business with the Flames has gone up.

The Leafs missed out on Nikita Zadorov because of it, and also missed out on Chris Tanev the first time around, as the veteran blueliner was shipped to Dallas instead. Now, with Andersson, the Leafs may face a similar fate. That is unless this new wrinkle actually works to their benefit.

According to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, the Flames have set an internal deadline to deal Andersson. They reportedly want him moved sometime between now and February 4th, before the Olympic break.

The Flames putting a deadline on this, in combination with the Leafs having had longstanding interest in the player could create a recipe for success here.

Yes, there are a number of teams interested in Andersson, but other teams who may need some more time to make other moves to create the necessary roster and cap space to acquire him may be forced to wait until closer to the trade deadline to make their move.

The Leafs happen to have what it takes to get a deal done, owning their 2028 1st round pick, a top defensive prospect in Ben Danford and other players like Matias Maccelli, Brandon Carlo or Max Domi to help push a deal across the finish line, in some combination. Also, Andersson is reportedly willing to sign an extension with the Leafs as a part of the deal, as previously reported.

The 29-year-old right shot blueliner is enjoying a successful season in Calgary, having scored 7 goals and a very respectable 25 points and a +3 rating across 37 games this season.