Surprising news emerges regarding Maple Leafs' Nicolas Roy ahead of NHL trade deadline

Although the level of play has improved a bit, the Toronto Maple Leafs lost again, and the trade speculation continues.

After falling 3-2 to the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday, Nicolas Roy has been the latest name to surface in trade rumors ahead of the NHL trade deadline, which is 3 p.m. ET on March 6.

On Tuesday's edition of "Ray & Dregs," TSN's Darren Dreger revealed that the belief, as things stand, is that Roy, 29, will be traded.

"There is some speculation around Nicolas Roy. As a third-line center, is he capable of shouldering that load, whether it's Edmonton or somewhere else?" Dreger said.

"Even though there's nothing etched in stone. When you're the Toronto Maple Leafs, you're looking at everything, right? Aside from the obvious few, there are no untouchables. And the belief is that Nicolas Roy will get traded."

Maple Leafs face decision on Nicolas Roy as contenders circle

Roy is in the fourth year of his five-year deal at $3M AAV. There is no doubt that if Toronto is willing to let him go, more than one franchise will seek out the Canadian center.

Given his contractual situation, Roy is a valuable asset. He is physical, responsible and a defensive specialist who assumes a third-line center role. By profile, it doesn't "suit" the Leafs to let him go ... that easily.

It will be profitable for the Leafs to let him go as long as they sell him dearly. If a team gets desperate and pays a "premium" price by offering a high pick or an interesting prospect, then yes, Toronto should take advantage and sell. Otherwise, it's very difficult for the Canadian franchise to obtain a convenient deal.