NHL Trade Rumors: Will Brian Burke Trade for a New Leafs Goalie?

Trade rumors are the talk of the town in Toronto, with the Maple Leafs looking to improve in some key areas.

With the loss of seven of their last 10 games and dropping out of the eighth seed, Brian Burke has to be at least considering trading for a new goalie.

While James Reimer pulled out a decent performance against San Jose last night, goaltending is still the main area of concern for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke on TSN Radio Wednesday: 

"

“I’m not sure that we’re not going to be in the market [for a goalie] before we’re done,” Burke said. “It’s something that we have to at least explore what the price tags are. The fact is we’re losing games because we’re not stopping the puck enough. … We’ve got to get our goaltenders to stop the puck.” 

That sure sounds like "Burke-nese" speak for we are keeping our options open. There are some good options out there too who could make an immediate impact with the club.

"

1. Trade for Josh Harding 

With the Minnesota Wild falling out of contention, Josh Harding is some trade bait they have been dangling around for awhile. He is an unrestricted free agent at season's end and won't cost the Maple Leafs much.

A possible one-for-one trade for Jonas Gustavsson and possibly a kicker, like a fourth- or fifth-round pick might all that is needed. 

2. Trade for Nikolai Khabibulin 

The 39-year old is playing well despite his age. Owed about $5 million this and next season, this is considered a salary dump for Edmonton, a young team that is still developing. Brian Burke could make this deal work.

3. Give Ben Scrivens Another Chance

 In eight career starts with the Maple Leafs, Scrivens alternated first-star performances with ones that he would want to forget. He is young and still learning the ropes, but a second chance for this All-American might be all he needs.