Massive Blockbuster Trade Set To Shock The NHL

In Brad Treliving's inaugural year as the Toronto Maple Leafs' general manager, one notable absence was 2022 Calder Trophy runner-up Michael Bunting.

Departing for the contending Carolina Hurricanes, Bunting signed a three-year deal after an impressive season with the Leafs, where he scored 23 goals and provided 26 assists.


Joining the Hurricanes, a team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals, Bunting returned to Toronto over the weekend, scoring a goal that highlighted his impact and enjoyment.


However, recent reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggest a potential twist. Bunting could be on the trade block in Carolina, with talks circulating about clearing cap space for a goaltender acquisition. Friedman revealed this during the Saturday Headlines segment on Hockey Night in Canada, noting Bunting's lower position in the lineup and speculating about his possible role in creating cap room.

In the first year of his three-year, $4.5 million AAV contract, Bunting has accumulated eight goals, 17 assists, and a -9 rating in 36 games played. The situation adds an intriguing layer to Bunting's journey, raising questions about his future role with the Hurricanes and potential impact on their roster dynamics.
NHL players in this story
Michael Bunting