Dreger: Kessel, Phaneuf more likely to be traded in offseason than before deadline

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly open to parting with Phil Kessel and Dion Phaneuf, but trades involving the pair are reportedly more likely to come in the summer rather than prior to the deadline.

"When you consider the remainder of the term and the money that's owed to the captain of the Maple Leafs, Dion Phaneuf, he has to get healthy and back into the lineup, and he's probably five-to-seven days away from that," TSN's Darren Dreger said on Thursday's edition of "Insider Trading".

"You've got Phil Kessel who, he's been a disappointment this season, but again, a mammoth contract," he continued.

Phaneuf is owed $8 million this season, and $29 million more over the next four years, according to NHLNumbers. Kessel is earning $10 million in 2014-15, and the winger is owed another $35 million for four additional seasons.

"If those deals are to get done and there is an appetite, it's somewhat obvious, given the fact that this organization is embracing an overhaul, it's more than likely that they get done in the offseason."

Entering Thursday's action, Kessel had 21 goals and 26 assists in 55 games, while Phaneuf had two goals and 20 assists in 48 contests.