Insider names two veteran centers Maple Leafs could sign

The Toronto Maple Leafs could sign more players this season if they see an opportunity in offensive positions during training camp, as confirmed by GM Brad Treliving.

Now, The Athletic's Chris Johnston suggested Pavel Zacha of the Boston Bruins and Bo Horvat of the New York Islanders as two veteran centers who could interest Toronto.

"Maybe some veteran forwards become available, whether it’s Pavel Zacha in Boston or Bo Horvat with the Islanders," Johnston said on Monday’s episode of The Leaf Report podcast. "They’re players that could satisfy the needs in places like Montreal, Vancouver, maybe even Toronto."

Treliving stated the roster is still not complete, despite the signings of Nicolas Roy, Matias Maccelli, Dakota Joshua and Michael Pezzetta this summer.

Pavel Zacha and Bo Horvat are good but very complicated options for the Maple Leafs

Both players cited would be excellent additions to Toronto's depth. Zacha, 28, is entering the third year of a four-year deal with the Bruins with a $4.7 million cap hit. Horvat, 30, is entering the third year of an eight-year contract with the Islanders, with an $8.5 million cap hit. 

Toronto currently has only $1.9 million in cap space, complicating the absorption of either salary. While Zacha's is more manageable, it still exceeds the available space.

The Leafs have an overabundance of players in offensive positions. Treliving's statements suggest they plan to move some players. This is mandatory if they want to sign anyone.

Furthermore, Boston would complicate a Zacha exit, considering the recent retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. The Islanders also count on Horvat as a key long-term piece.

Toronto is seeking depth and experience at center to complement Auston Matthews. But as things stand, the simplest alternative is to give opportunities to younger players already on the squad, like Maccelli or prospect Easton Cowan, who would not alter the salary cap further.