As the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a crucial juncture. With the departure of Mitch Marner, General Manager Brad Treliving might be considering adding offensive firepower to the team. One potential target that has emerged in trade discussions is Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch.

Tuch, a 6-foot-4 winger, is entering the final year of his contract with the Sabres. Although the Sabres have expressed they don't plan to trade Tuch, their stance might shift if the team struggles or if Tuch indicates he's likely to test free agency. If Tuch becomes available, he could be a valuable rental player.

Tuch is a skilled and physical player who could fit well in Toronto's top-six forwards. Coming off a 67-point season, he could potentially play alongside Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies on the top line, bringing a power-forward presence that would suit Coach Craig Berube's system.

The Maple Leafs' interest in Tuch isn't about signing him long-term, as they might not be able to afford an extension. Instead, the focus would be on acquiring Tuch to address the need for a top offensive producer after Marner's departure and to add a player with significant playoff experience. Tuch has played 66 NHL playoff games.

Aside from Tuch, the Maple Leafs have other potential trade targets. Tyler Bertuzzi from the Chicago Blackhawks is a player who could improve the roster and fit the Maple Leafs' style of play. A reunion with Bertuzzi might be questioned by some fans, but he could fill a hole in the top six. Under Coach Berube, Bertuzzi might play on the second line with William Nylander and John Tavares, serving as a net-front presence. The Maple Leafs may also consider players from within their own division. Alexander Carrier from Montreal Canadiens could be a target.

Some analysts believe the Maple Leafs might consider trading prospect Easton Cowan or other lesser pieces to acquire a top-six forward or a top-four defenseman. Potential targets could include Bryan Rust from the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dougie Hamilton from the New Jersey Devils, or Jason Robertson from the Dallas Stars.

The Maple Leafs have made some acquisitions at the past trade deadline, such as Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers and Brandon Carlo from the Boston Bruins. Laughton and Carlo brought physicality to the game, which is what the Leafs needed.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Maple Leafs' priorities appear to be adding a middle-six center and a right-shot defenseman. The team has been linked to Brayden Schenn, though acquiring him might be a long shot. Other potential targets include Scott Laughton and Brock Nelson.

Several factors will influence the Maple Leafs' trade deadline strategy. The team's performance leading up to the deadline, the availability of players, and the cost of acquiring those players will all play a role in Treliving's decisions. The Leafs may also trade Calle Jarnkrok to free up cap space to acquire a top-6 player.