TSN insider suggests keeping an eye on Gourde as a potential fit for the Leafs if they don’t acquire Schenn.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been facing some weaknesses in their gameplay, which includes a lack of secondary scoring and a defenseman that could contribute as a genuine shooting threat on power plays. Moreover, they are also lacking in size and toughness among their forward ranks, which could make them a more challenging team to compete against and wear down their opponents physically.

Regarding potential acquisitions to address these weaknesses, some names have been mentioned, including Scott Laughton, Yanni Gourde, and Brayden Schenn. However, opinions vary on the suitability of these players to fill the gaps in the Leafs’ lineup.

Scott Laughton is not a center, and his ability to significantly impact the team’s scoring capabilities or physical presence is questionable. Yanni Gourde, on the other hand, is considered undersized and may not be able to deliver as a depth scorer, especially in a bottom-six role with limited support. Given these considerations, it seems that neither Laughton nor Gourde would be the optimal choice to improve the Maple Leafs’ performance.

In contrast, Brayden Schenn is viewed more favorably as a potential addition to the Leafs. Schenn is recognized for his ability to provide depth scoring, leadership qualities, increased physicality, and a strong two-way game. Compared to Laughton and Gourde, Schenn stands out as the most promising option to address the team’s needs, although some reservations are raised about the timing of his potential arrival in Toronto.

While Schenn’s qualities are acknowledged and appreciated, some concerns remain about the lack of recent exposure to his playing performance, with limited opportunities to observe him in action. As such, the decision to pursue Schenn as a solution to the Maple Leafs’ weaknesses is met with cautious optimism, pending further evaluation and assessment of his potential impact on the team.

In conclusion, the Toronto Maple Leafs are actively considering options to enhance their roster and address their weaknesses in secondary scoring, defensive contributions, and physical presence. While Scott Laughton and Yanni Gourde are regarded as less favorable choices for these roles, the potential addition of Brayden Schenn offers a more promising prospect for strengthening the team’s performance. As the Leafs continue their deliberations on potential acquisitions, the focus remains on identifying the most suitable candidate to bolster their lineup and propel them towards greater success in the upcoming seasons.