Toronto Maple Leafs exploring Mikhail Sergachev trade, report suggests talks with Utah Mammoth

The Toronto Maple Leafs may be considering a major addition to their defense corps. According to Howard Berger of Between the Posts, the Leafs have had preliminary conversations with the Utah Mammoth regarding defenseman Mikhail Sergachev.

While the report originated from a social media post and offered little follow-up detail, it has nonetheless sparked speculation that Toronto could be eyeing a significant blue-line upgrade.

Toronto Maple Leafs linked to Mikhail Sergachev in early trade chatter amid Utah Mammoth rumors

Sergachev, 27, is coming off one of his strongest NHL seasons, recording 53 points in 77 games while averaging over 25 minutes per night, sixth-most among all defensemen. His offensive production included 23 points on the power play, a boost the Maple Leafs could use after their man-advantage unit underperformed last season.Howard Berger of Between the Posts was the first to float Toronto’s link to Sergachev, noting in a social media post that the Maple Leafs and Utah Mammoth have had preliminary conversations. While Berger did not expand on the rumor in his follow-up article, the mention alone has fueled speculation about Toronto’s interest in making a major blue-line addition.

Adding Sergachev would instantly give Toronto the top-pairing, two-way defenseman they have long sought.

However, his $8.5 million cap hit and full no-movement clause present immediate obstacles. The Leafs currently have just $1.9 million in available cap space, meaning a blockbuster move would require either a creative financial solution or parting with a significant contract to make the numbers work.

What it would take for Toronto Maple Leafs to land Mikhail Sergachev in trade with Utah Mammoth

For Utah, the incentive to move Sergachev is unclear given his age and performance, but speculation suggests they could be looking to “sell high” on a player entering his prime. If talks progress, the Mammoth would almost certainly demand a meaningful return, potentially involving a top prospect like Easton Cowan.Toronto has tried moving depth players such as David Kämpf and Calle Järnkrok without success, and a bigger piece would almost certainly be required to entice Utah. While Morgan Rielly’s name could surface in theoretical scenarios, his no-trade clause makes that outcome unlikely.For now, the idea of Sergachev joining the Maple Leafs remains speculation. The combination of his high cap hit and Utah’s lack of urgency to part ways makes any deal complicated. Still, if Toronto is serious about addressing its defensive shortcomings and chasing a Stanley Cup, exploring a bold move like this could be the type of swing that changes their outlook.Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Carey Price contract expected to be moved in coming days, San Jose Sharks generating most buzz