NHL Trade Rumors: Maple Leafs Aggresively Pursuing James Van Riemsdyk

According to TSN's Darren Dreger, Flyers GM Paul Holmgren and Leafs GM Brian Burke have been officially reported as talking to one another about a possible James van Riemsdyk—Luke Schenn trade.

The talks have been confirmed by TSN and the Philadelphia Daily News.

After the season-ending injury to captain Chris Pronger, it's well known that the Flyers have become very interested in acquiring a replacement for the bruising defenseman. 

Burke, known for his affinity for American talent, is reportedly actively scouting JVR.

One of the teams in the NHL with the defensive depth to execute such a trade are the Toronto Maple Leafs. If Schenn is indeed untouchable—as it has often been suggested—Burke has Carl Gunnarsson and John-Michael Liles to dangle as trade bait to secure van Riemsdyk, who was just signed to a six-year contract extension recently. 

As history has taught us, nobody who signs long term in Philly is necessarily part of a long-term plan.

The Flyers shipped out captain Mike Richards and high scoring center/winger Jeff Carter this past summer after both were thought to be integral parts of the Flyers' future for at least the next decade.