The Toronto Maple Leafs are searching for answers after an 8–8–2 start exposed major roster flaws, especially on defense. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas, however, there’s one problem with any quick fix: The Leafs don’t have the assets to make one.

As the Leafs continue to struggle and the need for drastic measures grows, a trade might not be the answer for GM Brad Treliving.

Two of the NHL's top offensive options square off when the Toronto Maple Leafs (8-8-2) and William Nylander (eight goals and 17 assists) visit the Chicago Blackhawks (8-5-4) and Connor Bedard (10 goals and 15 assists) at United Center on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. ET, airing on ESPN+.

BOTTOM LINE: The Toronto Maple Leafs come into a matchup against the Los Angeles Kings after losing three straight games. Toronto has an 8-8-1 record overall and a 7-4-1 record on its home ice. The Maple Leafs rank third in the league with 62 total goals (averaging 3.6 per game).

Fixing the current roster to the point that the Stanley Cup feels legitimately possible again won't be easy for GM Brad Treliving.

Fraser Minten scored against his former team and Jeremy Swayman made 30 saves as the Boston Bruins beat the sloppy Toronto Maple Leafs 5-3 on Saturday night for their sixth straight victory.

Cowan had one assist in two AHL games, Woll appeared in one and a half games with Marlies on conditioning stint

The Leafs are currently sitting 14th in the Eastern Conference as of Friday afternoon, and are in danger of missing the playoffs.