Scribe Links Maple Leafs To Trade For Dynamic Sabres Sniper

As the 2025-26 NHL season gets underway, the Toronto Maple Leafs weren’t off to the best start, but are recently finding ways to score goals. A 7-4 win over Nashville on Tuesday was a breakout offensive effort for the roster, but the team might still be keeping an eye on the trade market, reportedly looking for a goal scorer and willing to move Nick Robertson in a deal.

One scribe has linked the Maple Leafs to the Buffalo Sabres, specifically to Sabres sniper Tage Thompson.

With the Leafs still in need of a top-six winger, and the sky falling in Buffalo, Thompson fits the profile of someone who would be an ideal fit and Peter Baracchini of The Hockey Writers notes the Sabres are “getting “into dangerous territory” with both Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson as they stated that there needs to be improvements this season, giving management a short leash.”

Does that mean Thompson would be willing to leave Buffalo if a trade opportunity presented itself?

Baracchini adds:

“While there is no speculation and no major moves are imminent, if and when the rumours do start to swirl, the Maple Leafs should keep an eye on the Sabres’ situation and shouldn’t hesitate to make a run for Thompson as he’s everything they want in a top line, power forward winger.”

How Soon Before the Sabres Become Sellers?

The Sabres have struggled out of the gate, starting 0-3 with 10 goals allowed, and star players Rasmus Dahlin and Thompson have openly expressed frustration with the team’s early results. According to Elliotte Friedman, tensions are high with a volatile situation brewing. That could make Thompson available if management decides a shake-up is necessary.