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Report: Maple Leafs’ top priority is to add a right-shot defenceman
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 21, 2026, 09:30 ESTUpdated: Jan 21, 2026, 09:23 EST
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly prioritizing the addition of a right-shot defenceman to improve the back end, according to TSN’s Chris Johnston.
“ They’re still looking for a right-shot defenceman,” he said during an appearance on Early Insider Trading on Tuesday. “ With Chris Tanev sidelined, that remains, I think, the top priority for the team is trying to find ways to augment the group on the back end.”
Johnston is the latest to report that the Leafs have their sights set on improving their blueline, and it’s also not the first time he mentioned a defenceman they were considering. He noted during an episode of The Chris Johnston Show on January 12th that the Leafs were considering bringing back Luke Schenn for a third stint. The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reported on Monday that GM Brad Treliving is currently more focused on adding a right-handed defenceman.
TSN’s Darren Dreger noted on January 6th that Treliving is ramping up efforts to find some reinforcements on the back end, preferably one who is a puck mover. It explains why the Leafs were linked to Rasmus Andersson prior to him being dealt to the Vegas Golden Knights this past weekend, and why some are connecting the team to the newly available Dougie Hamilton.
Johnston noted that since the Leafs have gotten themselves back into the playoff race, they would soon like to make some moves to bolster their chances. With that said, he also mentioned that the back end is not their only focus at the moment.
“ While defence is the clear priority, I’d also mention that they’re scouring the market for forwards. I don’t think that it is just a one-size-fits-all,” Johnston said. “ Now the problem the Leafs have had all year long, and it remains a hurdle, is that they can’t get into the big game stuff. They just don’t have the first-round picks and other assets that you’re seeing move in some of the larger trades we’ve had already this season. So it’s gonna take some creativity, it may take some bargain hunting.”
Adding a forward is a secondary need, given the fact that their offensive production has been among the best in the NHL to this point. An addition up front is more likely either to bring some reinforcements for shutdown minutes or add another weapon that can be utilized in the top six.
It remains to be seen how close the Leafs are to executing on their trade search, but it appears that Treliving is currently prioritizing stabilizing the backend.
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