Leafs GM Brad Treliving talks Lyubuskin deal, approach ahead of NHL trade deadline

In a strategic move to bolster their defensive lineup ahead of the NHL’s March 8 trade deadline, the Toronto Maple Leafs reacquired defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin in a three-team deal. This transaction, finalized late Thursday evening, addressed a pressing need for a right-shot defenseman, especially given the team’s recent injury challenges.

 

General Manager Brad Treliving emphasized the importance of this acquisition, noting the team’s shortage on the right side of their defense. He highlighted that while many names circulate in trade discussions, it’s crucial to differentiate between realistic options and mere speculation. citeturn0search0

 

Lyubushkin’s return to Toronto comes at a critical juncture. The team has been grappling with injuries to key defensemen: Mark Giordano suffered a concussion in a recent game against the Arizona Coyotes, Timothy Liljegren is sidelined with an undisclosed injury, Conor Timmins is battling mononucleosis, and John Klingberg underwent season-ending hip surgery. These setbacks left the Maple Leafs dressing six left-handed defensemen in their last two games, underscoring the necessity for a right-handed addition like Lyubushkin. citeturn0search0

 

Lyubushkin’s initial stint with the Maple Leafs in 2022 showcased his defensive reliability. Over 31 games and one playoff round, he developed notable chemistry with top defenseman Morgan Rielly. Rielly praised Lyubushkin’s competitiveness, reflecting the locker room’s enthusiasm about his return. citeturn0search0

 

Beyond reinforcing the defense, Treliving is exploring additional roster enhancements. He identified depth up front, further blue-line support, and clarifying the goaltending situation—currently involving Ilya Samsonov, Joseph Woll, and Martin Jones—as focal points. Treliving acknowledged that while addressing every need by the deadline is unlikely, the team remains committed to exploring opportunities that could strengthen their playoff aspirations. citeturn0search0

 

The Maple Leafs are open to trading first-round picks if it aligns with their long-term strategy. Treliving cautioned against sacrificing future assets for short-term gains, emphasizing a balanced approach that considers both immediate impact and future sustainability. citeturn0search0

 

Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, Treliving noted that while a seven-game winning streak is encouraging, it hasn’t altered the organization’s assessment of areas needing improvement. He underscored the importance of a comprehensive evaluation over the season rather than relying solely on short-term successes. citeturn0search0

 

In summary, the reacquisition of Ilya Lyubushkin signifies the Maple Leafs’ proactive approach to fortifying their defense amid injury challenges. Coupled with ongoing evaluations for further roster improvements, Treliving’s strategy reflects a commitment to both immediate competitiveness and long-term organizational health as the trade deadline approaches.