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Leafs: 5 Storylines to Follow in the Second Half of the Season

By James Reeve

Jan 1, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) during their game against the Detroit Red Wings during the Centennial Classic ice hockey game at BMO Field. The Maple Leafs beat the Red Wings 5-4 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) during their game against the Detroit Red Wings during the Centennial Classic ice hockey game at BMO Field. The Maple Leafs beat the Red Wings 5-4 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 15, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs left wing James van Riemsdyk (25) is congratulated by teammates on his hat trick goal against the Nashville Predators at Air Canada Centre. The Maple Leafs defeated the Predators 6-2. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

2) Trade Deadline

The Leafs are currently in a strong position, holding a 9-1-1 record in their last 11 games and looking more and more likely to be playoff bound this season.

But the prospect of the playoffs may come with some changes to the team, with contenders often looking to bring in depth and supporting players that can give something extra to push themselves deeper into the playoffs.

James van Riemsdyk is constantly the topic of trade talk, with a top 4 defenceman the reportedly desired return, but the Leafs could make any number of moves ahead of or on the trade deadline.

Teams with veterans could make deals to take some of the Leafs’ spare parts if they believe trying to push themselves deeper into the playoffs this season is in the best interests of the team.

Jarome Iginla and Shane Doan are two examples of aging vets that could be interested in playing for a playoff contender come the trade deadline and, while the Leafs may not necessarily be interested in those specific players, it will be interesting to see what moves they make.

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