As the Toronto Maple Leafs attempt to improve their defense and, at the same time, negotiate with William Nylander, recent rumors are Justin Faulk might be an option for the team's blue line.

Throughout the summer, Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Justin Faulk has been near the top of the trade bait board. Most of the players ranked ahead of him were moved, including names like Erik Karlsson, Max Pacioretty, and Jeff Skinner. While there were (and probably still are) teams interested in the veteran d-man, he's stayed with the Hurricanes. It could be because the asking price is high, but with the sheer surplus of blueliners in Carolina, it seems obvious the team might trade Faulk to improve their offense, especially considering how little depth the team has in that area.

Meanwhile, Toronto is looking at improving their blueline. A team with a strong forward corps but little depth on defense, insider Pierre LeBrun recently revealed on TSN Radio 1050 that Faulk was a target of the Leafs this summer and speculated that the team could still move to acquire him this season.

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While Faulk's $4.83 million cap hit over two more years is reasonable, it's not something Toronto can take on without first moving money. LeBrun speculates the Hurricanes are likely asking for a major package in exchange for Faulk, and while the idea of moving the unsigned Nylander is probably not something Toronto wants to do, LeBrun suggests there are other moves the team could make.

A veteran center like Nazem Kadri, promising wingers Kasperi Kapanen and Andreas Johnsson, and/or goalies like Garret Sparks and Joseph Woll might entice the Hurricanes if draft picks are added to the package. Should the Leafs move enough salary to Carolina, the team also helps itself in terms of the salary cap and securing contracts for their young forwards, Nylander included.

If a deal is there between the Leafs and the Hurricanes, it could be the exact situation that would help Leafs GM Kyle Dubas. He'll lose a good player but he'll improve his blue line and free up some money at the same time.

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