​A big trade happened in the NHL on Monday, and this blockbuster deal helps the Toronto Maple Leafs in plenty of ways. The trade came out of nowhere, and the Maple Leafs continue building a solid group heading into the season. TRADE: We’ve acquired forwards Kirill Marchenko, Miles Wood, and goaltender Elvis Merzļikins from the Columbus Blue Jackets— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 28, 2026MORE:NHL player comments on why American players want out of CanadaWhy the trade makes sense for TorontoJan 31, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) celebrates his game winning shootout goal against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)The Maple Leafs need more playmakers to help Auston Matthews’ production, and this move certainly does that. The money is more, but the player in Kirill Marchenko is better than Matthew Knies. Knies brings more physicality to his game and plays with an edge; Marchenko is the player that they need to pair with Matthews.The Leafs have now made multiple moves to improve their offense, and their top six is looking very strong heading into this season. They may go from drafting Gavin McKenna at number one to competing for a playoff spot and making some noise in the Eastern Conference.The trade doesn’t make sense at first with them trading a young player with less of a cap hit, but the Leafs want more offense and play drivers, which Marchenko is very good at.Kirill Marchenko’s ImpactMar 2, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets right wing Kirill Marchenko (86) plays the puck against the New York Rangers during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)The key to Marchenko’s ability is his drive and playmaking ability. He registered 67 points in 76 games with a roster that is far less talented than the Leafs. Now, he joins a revamped team that has numerous playmakers, and let’s not forget what Auston Matthews can be when he has the puck on his stick.This power play is going to be very fun to watch from another angle of this trade. Last year, they were the 15th-best unit, and that is even with an absent Auston Matthews. Marchenko will help with setting up his teammates, creating opportunities for this team to score more goals and improve their offense.OutlookThis trade is a win for the Leafs, and this top six forward core looks very good on paper. We will see how the team plays this season, but the team should have lots to cheer for as they acquired a very good player. It will be interesting to see how their new coach shapes up the offense, but Jim Hiller has plenty to work with and can help the Leafs get back to the playoffs.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —