Trade Proposal Suggests Maple Leafs Acquiring $25 Million Star Forward
A trade suggestion has the Toronto Maple Leafs acquiring Ryan Strome from the Anaheim Ducks. Although the Maple Leafs focused on improving their goaltending and defense during the offseason, their offense has been underperforming to start the season.
Using the PuckGM tool from PuckPedia, one user proposed a deal that would bring Strome to Toronto. This trade could work well for Anaheim, as it would allow them to move Strome’s contract while gaining a second-round pick and two NHL players, including a young forward who could be part of their rebuilding future.
Strome is currently in the third year of his five-year, $25 million contract with the Ducks. He could fit as a middle-six forward for the Maple Leafs, providing the team with the offensive boost it desperately needs, as well as contributing to the power play. Strome has posted 3 goals and 3 assists for 6 points in 11 games this season.
The centerpiece of Anaheim’s return would be the second-round pick and forward Holmberg. The 25-year-old Swede, a bottom-six forward, could be a valuable addition to the Ducks’ young core. In his NHL career, Holmberg has played in 102 games, scoring 12 goals and 19 assists for 31 points.
Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs’ Jarnkrok, who is in the third year of his four-year, $8.4 million contract, could serve as a middle-six forward for the Ducks if included in the trade. He could also be used as a trade asset later in the season to acquire additional players or picks.
Jarnkrok Still Recovering From Injury
Jarnkrok has not yet played in the 2024-2025 season due to an injury he sustained during training camp, which led to his placement on long-term injured reserve. As of October 24, Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube indicated that Jarnkrok is still in the process of recovering and has yet to skate on the ice.
“He’s still recovering from his injury and working on it daily. He hasn’t been on the ice yet, so that’s where he’s at,” Berube stated.
Once healthy, Jarnkrok is expected to return to the Maple Leafs lineup, likely on the second or third line, and contribute to the power play. Last season, he registered 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points in 52 games.
Although the Ducks are in the midst of a rebuild, veteran forward Alex Killorn believes the team could still compete for a playoff spot this season. “It’s tough to set exact expectations right now,” Killorn said to Heavy.com. “Obviously, our goal is the playoffs. Even with the start of the season, we’re in a decent position. It’s going to be a long road, but that’s always the goal. Whether we get there or not, I’m hopeful with the talent we have on this team.”