Maple Leafs Bolster Defense with Ilya Lyubushkin in Three-Team Trade

The trade with the Ducks and Hurricanes aims to strengthen Toronto's blue line and provides cap flexibility ahead of the trade deadline.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin from the Anaheim Ducks in a three-team trade also involving the Carolina Hurricanes.
Lyubushkin, known for his physicality and shot-blocking ability, previously played for the Leafs in the 2021-22 season.
The Ducks received Toronto's 2025 third-round pick, retaining 50% of Lyubushkin's salary, while the Hurricanes received a 2024 sixth-round pick for retaining 25% of his salary.
The trade provides the Maple Leafs with cap flexibility ahead of the March 8 NHL trade deadline, with Lyubushkin's cap hit at $687,500.
Lyubushkin is expected to fill in for injured Mark Giordano and provide depth on the blue line as Toronto continues its playoff push.