In a bold move, Brad Treliving, the general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, made significant trades ahead of the deadline, addressing the team's defensive weaknesses. Acquiring Brandon Carlo, a towering defenceman from Boston, aims to bolster Morgan Rielly's defensive support, while Scott Laughton’s addition is intended to enhance the team's scoring depth, albeit at a hefty price of protected first-round picks.

These trades underline Treliving’s commitment to transforming the team's playoff fortunes, as he looks to improve upon a disappointing record in postseason series. However, the trades come with increased pressure on the team’s star players, including Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, to deliver when it matters most.