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Is It Time the Maple Leafs Traded Max Domi?

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated Feb 12, 2025 2:21 PM ET

Max Domi’s time with the Toronto Maple Leafs has been inconsistent. His play has left much to be desired after signing a four-year deal in the offseason. The team expected he’d carry over his late-season and playoff form from the previous years. Although he’s been an effective playmaker and once scored 28 goals in a season, he’s put up only three goals in 47 games this year. This lack of production has made some hockey fans question his future with the team.

Would the Maple Leafs Consider Moving Domi?

With the trade deadline approaching and the Maple Leafs needing to bolster their depth scoring, could Domi’s struggles scoring push the team to move him? That is if they can. Logically, his contract, which carries a modest $3.75 million cap hit, should be relatively easy to move. His modified no-movement clause allows for only 13 teams he can’t be traded to. Still, is there a taker?

If the Maple Leafs want to make an impact move to improve their secondary offense, some hockey writers suggest that trading Domi might be the best route to go. On the other hand, Domi’s physical style and tenacity could still be valuable in a playoff run. So, if he can find his form once again, the Maple Leafs could benefit. The possible dilemma leaves the organization with a bit of a tough decision.

Reasons to Keep Max Domi:

Reason	Details
Playoff Experience	He brings a tenacious, aggressive edge that fits the team’s identity.
Physicality and Style	He brings a tenacious, aggressive edge that fits the team’s overall identity.
Potential for a Turnaround	Domi has had stretches of good play, and a change in approach could see him return to form.
Chemistry with Other Players	In the past, Domi has shown an ability to find chemistry with players like John Tavares and William Nylander, which could be reignited.

Reasons to Move On from Max Domi:

Reason	Details
Inconsistent Production	Domi has struggled with long goal-scoring droughts, including a 22-game goalless streak this season.
Lower Impact Than Other Players	Players like Matthew Knies and Bobby McMann have contributed more significantly to the team’s offense.
Decision-Making Issues	Domi has been criticized for passing up scoring chances and struggling with puck control.
Cap Space Flexibility	Moving Domi would open up cap space to pursue a more reliable scoring option ahead of the deadline.

The Bottom Line for the Maple Leafs and for Domi

Who knows what the Maple Leafs are thinking concerning Domi? Are they at a crossroads with him? While he possesses valuable skills, he’s been inconsistent. The trade deadline offers an opportunity for Toronto to address its depth-scoring issues.

On the one hand, moving on from Domi could help create the space needed to bring in a player who can make a more significant impact. However, if Domi can turn things around, he might prove valuable down the last stretch of the regular season. He clearly wants to stay in Toronto, and as the salary cap rises, his contract becomes more team-friendly. What to do?

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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