Toronto Maple Leafs: Josh Leivo and Nikita Soshnikov on the move?

Reports have surfaced surrounding the future of Toronto Maple Leafs’ wingers Josh Leivo and Nikita Soshnikov who could be on their way out of town.

It should be an interesting time for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the weeks leading up to the trade deadline, not because of who they could acquire but rather which players might be shipped out.

On Hockey Night in Canada’s Headlines, Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reported that Josh Leivo has approached GM Lou Lamoriello asking to be moved out before the deadline.

This does not come as a surprise given how the 24-year-old has only played 12 games this season the last coming against the Vegas Golden Knights on Dec. 31. This request probably came when Kasperi Kapanen was recalled to play on the fourth line instead of Leivo getting a chance.

The Innisfil, Ont., native lacks any leverage in this situation since the Leafs extended his contract back in November but it might help the team get some value back if they decide to move him.

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The other player’s name that surfaced during the segment Saturday night was Nikita Soshnikov, who is currently playing on a conditioning stint with the Toronto Marlies.

He has only played three games this season with the Leafs while playing another 15 with the Marlies registering 13 points. Elliotte Friedman suggested the 24-year-old winger could also be moved and it would not be surprising to see happen soon since he is playing well in the AHL.

Soshnikov also has a clause in his contract that would allow him to go back to the KHL if he is not on an NHL roster. There will likely be suitors for both players but it would be hard to justify a strong return for the Leafs.

If they can land a draft pick as compensation for either player it would help the team with moves down the road as they are currently at the 50 contract limit.

It also helps that the team has other options with the Marlies that have been knocking on the door and could earn more of an opportunity at some point down the road.

Next: Justin Holl’s long road to his NHL debut

Which player do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs could move and what would you expect the return to be in a trade? Let us know in the comments.