The Toronto Maple Leafs traded defenseman Brandon Carlo to the St. Louis Blues on Saturday, acquiring two third-round picks in the 2026 NHL draft — selections No. 73 and 76 overall. The move continues general manager John Chayka's restructuring of the team's blue line since taking over in early May.
Carlo's Tenure in Toronto Falls Short of Expectations
Carlo, 29, was acquired from the Boston Bruins in March 2025 by former Leafs GM Brad Treliving in a deal that sent prospect Fraser Minten and a first-round pick to Boston. That first-round pick will be used by the Bruins in either 2027 or 2028. Minten has since become a valued contributor for the Bruins.
According to Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun, Carlo did not have the impact the Leafs desired. In 75 games over two seasons with Toronto, the 6-foot-5, 227-pound defenseman recorded no goals, 10 assists, and 50 penalty minutes, failing to provide the physical edge expected from his size.
Chayka's Blue-Line Overhaul Continues
Chayka, named general manager in the first week of May, has been active in reshaping the defense. He earlier acquired defenseman Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a sign-and-trade and obtained Emil Andrae from the Philadelphia Flyers in a swap that sent goalie Joseph Woll and defenseman Simon Benoit to Philadelphia.
Further moves may be in the works, with veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly potentially on the block after trade talks began a few weeks ago, as reported by Koshan.
Carlo's Role in Matthews Injury Incident
Carlo was among the Leafs on the ice when Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas delivered a knee-on-knee hit to captain Auston Matthews in March, ending Matthews' season. Carlo did not intervene during the incident, which drew criticism from fans and analysts.
Carlo has one year remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $4.1 million US. His name had been in trade speculation since last summer.
— With files from Terry Koshan, Toronto Sun
