NHL insiders deem Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks as prime trade destinations for $31,000,000 Kraken forward

Trade destinations for $31,000,000 Kraken forward Yanni Gourde - Source: Imagn

NHL insiders have identified the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Vancouver Canucks as prime destinations for Seattle Kraken forward Yanni Gourde ahead of the March 3 trade deadline.

The 33-year-old center is in the last year of his six-year, $31 million contract, which has led to speculation that the Kraken could consider trading him. According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the Maple Leafs make particular sense, given their need for an upgrade at third line center.

Gourde won back-to-back Stanley Cups with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021, experience that could prove invaluable for a Leafs team searching for playoff success.