Closing in on a second straight 20-goal season, McMann could still have a future in Toronto if a contract extension can be worked out. The Leafs certainly haven’t closed the door on that possibility. But he also represents an appealing trade chip for them to play if they pivot toward a retool. McMann skates extremely well for a man of his size, is unafraid to take the body and get in on the forecheck, and has authored a great story of perseverance — going undrafted before working his way up from the ECHL. He also carries the unofficial distinction of having the most team-friendly contract among players available at this deadline, which will be important to contenders as the NHL institutes a playoff salary cap for the first time.

There’s mutual interest between the Leafs and Laughton in extending their relationship, but the ultimate decision is going to come down to what he can fetch in assets as a trade chip and how much he wants to be paid on his next contract. Laughton could bring back some value despite being deployed almost exclusively as a fourth-line center in Toronto. Not only is he a heart-and-soul player who helps set the dressing room culture, but he’s also incredibly reliable in the faceoff dot.

A prototypical defensive defenseman who puts his body on the line by blocking shots and playing opponents physically, Benoit has endured some recent scratches. The Leafs have a number of depth options at the position, and Benoit represents a player who could bring back some value with a cap-friendly contract that runs through next season. What you see is what you get with Benoit, who has extremely limited offensive impacts.

Playing time has been difficult to come by for Järnkrok, who has been routinely scratched by Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube and is averaging a career-low 11:28 when he dresses. That’s coming off a season nearly lost entirely to groin and sports hernia surgeries. Järnkrok is an undersized forward who doesn’t play with any physicality — not exactly traits generally prized by Berube. Age and health-related decline may also be catching up to him. However, his biggest attribute has always been his ability to read the ice and consistently make good decisions with the puck.