An ESPN analyst recently suggested that the Toronto Maple Leafs could be eyeing a trade for Seattle Kraken forward Yanni Gourde, with the Leafs parting ways with one of their own forwards in the process. Gourde, 33, is in the final year of his six-year contract, which carries an average annual value of $5.17 million. As he approaches unrestricted free agency this summer, the Kraken are unlikely to retain him, making a trade seem inevitable.
According to Rachel Doerrie of ESPN, Gourde could provide the Maple Leafs with the depth and secondary scoring they need. Though he may no longer be the 20-goal scorer he once was, Gourde’s physical style of play remains valuable, demonstrated by his 156 hits last season. His ability to disrupt opponents and his grit make him a solid addition to Toronto’s roster.
Gourde, standing at 5’9″, would be a strong fit as a third-line center for the Leafs. This move would allow Max Domi to return to his natural position on the wing, further strengthening Toronto’s forward lines. Gourde also brings invaluable playoff experience to the table, having won two Stanley Cups with the Tampa Bay Lightning. This would be a significant asset for the Leafs as they aim for postseason success.
In exchange, the Kraken would acquire 23-year-old Nick Robertson, a promising forward who has recently found his scoring touch with three consecutive goals. While Robertson has shown potential, his fit within the Leafs’ lineup appears limited, and a change of scenery in Seattle could provide him the opportunity to thrive. The Kraken have a history of acquiring young players who have struggled to find their place with their current teams, as seen with Kaapo Kakko. Robertson would fit into this strategy, offering the Kraken a potential sniper to develop alongside their core.
This hypothetical trade offers a mutually beneficial solution: the Maple Leafs gain a physical, playoff-tested veteran forward in Gourde, while the Kraken acquire a young forward with upside in Robertson. The move could address Toronto’s depth concerns while giving Robertson the chance to flourish in a new environment.
