Max Domi’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs appears increasingly uncertain even though the forward recently signed a multi-year extension with the franchise.
NHL analyst Justin Bourne identified Domi as the “top player in trouble” ahead of the trade deadline as the team tries to land some reinforcements in return.
In his latest Sportsnet column, in which he discussed the potential Maple Leafs plans ahead of the March 7 deadline, Bourne pointed to Domi’s contract, lack of physical play, and the Leafs’ need for cap flexibility as reasons he could be moved.
“Domi can dish, he can skate with good players, and he can go up and down the lineup,” Bourne wrote. “But Toronto looks to have about $1.3 million in deadline cap space and they want to add, so someone’s money likely has to go out the door.
“He can be dealt, as he has a modified no-trade clause. His name will come up as an option to be moved.“
Domi, 29, signed a four-year, $15 million extension last summer, finally securing term after years of short contracts. However, his production has dipped, with just 22 points in 50 games this season.
As Bourne pointed out, Domi’s contract holds an undisclosed modified no-trade clause, meaning he has the right to veto trades to an unknown number of franchises.
“Domi doesn’t defend or play physical enough to be impactful in the bottom six in the playoffs, and the Leafs have six better offensive forwards with plans to add more,” Bourne wrote. “He makes $3.75 million per year for this year and the next three, and he’s moving deeper into his 30s.”
Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff also weighed in on the situation earlier this month, calling Domi’s struggles “really unfortunate” while noting the Leafs’ third line has been “one of the most lifeless in the league.”
With Toronto aiming to add before the deadline, Domi’s $3.75 million cap hit and modified no-trade clause could make him a prime candidate to be moved as the franchise only has $2.2. million in cap space with $3.6 more retained on its long-term injured reserve pool.
