Matthews

This actually explains why the Kings can’t go for Matthews this season, that defense and goalie situation is brutal.

I think the deal needs some re-working because Bjornfot and Durzi could probably help the Kings more than the Leafs. Leafs don't really need defense right now. Our top 7 is essentially set next year, assuming Schenn is back, and we have our own prospects that will work up 2 years from now and following (like Niemela, Kokkenen) and guys like Kral and Hollowell already starting to get spot duty.

I think LA has more forward to give and its probably what Toronto is focusing on this year anyway.

Even by adding Durzi and Bjornfot back, is that a Stanley cup contender without another shutdown defenseman and legit starter goalie?

I think goalie needs to be improved.

But there's also countless examples of random goalies going on runs. Look at Vegas (Aiden Hill) & Flordia (2023 Bobrovsky) as an example.

It's just unrealistic, the Kings will be looking to address these holes in the upcoming free agency. They already spent a 1st to get Korpisalo and Gavrikov, their priority will be to resign one if not both players.

Matthews is going to have a NMC coming right up and has not said anything about extending with Toronto or any other team.

From LA's point of view, strengthen the team so that Matthews is more likely to sign with LA next season when Kopitar and Arvidsson come off the books.