With the recent blockbuster trade that sent Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes, NHL trade rumors are swirling around Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner. Could the Leafs explore trading Marner before the NHL trade deadline on March 7 to avoid losing him for nothing when free agency opens in July?
NHL insider Adam Proteau of The Hockey News has sparked speculation with his belief that the Leafs could secure a king’s ransom by dealing Marner now. Proteau proposed bold trade scenarios, including sending Marner to the Vancouver Canucks for elite center Elias Pettersson or to the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for dynamic winger Clayton Keller.
Why Mitch Marner Could Be on the NHL Trade Block
Mitch Marner, a cornerstone of the Maple Leafs, is one of the league’s most productive and versatile forwards. However, his contract situation complicates things for Toronto. With free agency looming, the Leafs risk losing him without compensation if they can’t reach an extension by July.
Trading Marner could address multiple team needs. For instance, landing Elias Pettersson would give Toronto a top-tier center to bolster their forward depth. A deal for Clayton Keller, on the other hand, would provide a highly skilled winger at a slightly more affordable cap hit.
My take? If the Maple Leafs can’t lock Marner into a long-term deal, trading him may be their best option. While such a move would shock the hockey world, the Rantanen trade reminds us that even the most unexpected deals can happen. That said, barring a complete breakdown in contract negotiations, I find it unlikely Toronto will part ways with their hometown star by March 7.
Marner holds a full no-move clause, giving him complete control over his future and the final say on whether he re-signs with Toronto or explores free agency in July.
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