It’s still a sour subject as time goes on, but as the playoffs continue and the draft nears many other possible thoughts of improving the roster eases the pain of Edmonton winning the lottery (again) and having the luxury of drafting Connor McDavid.

It would seem that many are still bitter over the fact that the Oilers are gifted with their fourth-first overall pick in six years. But, nothing can be done, it’s time to move on and hope that whichever player the Leafs draft ends up being excellent for the organization going forward, despite what their historical tendencies may offer.

That being said, with the changes coming abroad and with Hanifin, Marner and Strome on the Leafs radar, I feel confident with any one of these players going forward.

Could be it that Toronto is working hard at acquiring another first round pick or two this season? Fans would certainly hope so. If Shanahan and Dubas can find a way to further stock the cupboards in this draft, it would certainly be most beneficial as perhaps there is a gem or two that will surprise down the road.

Looking over previous draft years, we can generally pick out a player or two who weren’t too high on many lists but have made significant impacts since – and this organization is due for break. One that is looked back at years down the road where we can pinpoint that this was the season when Shanahan put down his foot and stopped the bleeding.

So what teams may have interest in moving their first round pick at the 2015 draft?

Is there perhaps a scenario where Toronto looks to trade Nashville’s first overall pick that they acquired? Something along the lines of Nashville’s first plus one of the core players for another team’s first pick? Perhaps down the lines of something like Kessel + Nashville’s first for their 3rd overall pick.

Therefore is it likely that Kessel or even Phaneuf be moved at the draft to try and move up in the order?

Would the Leafs and Oilers be good trading partners? Defense and Goaltending are obviously two huge weaknesses on Edmonton’s roster, and as such they may have enough interest in Phaneuf or one of Bernier/Reimer. Of course the Leafs wouldn’t be acquiring the first overall, however there may be a scenario there which allows Toronto to scoop up one of the other young stars.

In thinking of trade scenarios, I wonder how likely it is that Toronto may approach Colorado regarding the likes of Bozak and or Phaneuf in a package deal in return for O’Reilly. This could elicit a deal in which both teams win as Colorado improves their defense and removes O’Reilly, but also receives back another center for 3rd line duties.

Mackinnon – Duchene – Bozak up the middle doesn’t sound so bad, especially when you are adding Phaneuf on the back end. Leafs would likely have to take some salary back with a player dump of some sort.

There are going to be a ton of trade scenario’s out there, but we can all agree that this is going to be a very active summer. What I’m really hoping for is some activity at the draft, especially if the Leafs can offload some of the core at the draft that would be not only ideal but would be the first few paint strokes on the blank canvas that are the Toronto Maple Leafs moving into the 2015 NHL offseason.

It may be a painful season ahead but it will be an exciting one in terms of addition by subtraction. Between new players, coaches and a new General Manager, there is a lot to look forward to in Leaf Land; and for once…maybe….could Toronto finally be heading down the right track?

I suppose that’s left to be seen, but I ask you - What are some possible trade scenario’s you see for the Leafs while gutting their core?

Thanks for reading!

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