As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare to blow up their roster, one name that has come up in trade talks is defenceman Dion Phaneuf.
According to Sportsnet’s Damien Cox and Elliotte Friedman, the Los Angeles Kings have already expressed interest in the Leafs captain and the defence-needy Detroit Red Wings could show some interest as well.
The Red Wings have already inquired about the availability of defenceman Cody Franson, but are unwilling to meet Toronto’s price which, according to Cox, includes a first round draft pick.
If the Red Wings ultimately decide to pursue Phaneuf, who signed a seven-year contract extension worth $49 million last season, they have made it clear that they will not trade either of their two top prospects — forwards Anthony Mantha and Dylan Larkin.
Phaneuf, 29, has two goals, 20 assists, and 85 penalty minutes in 48 games this season.
