The NHL rumor mill is on fire, and the latest buzz involves Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares and the Utah Hockey Team. In a recent episode of Jeff Marek Radio, NHL insiders Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman delved into the possibility of Tavares donning a Utah jersey next season.
Marek initiated the discussion, highlighting Utah’s abundance of young talent, particularly Logan Cooley. With a core focused on youth, the Utah Hockey Team are strategically targeting veteran players on short-term deals to provide mentorship and leadership. This led Marek to propose a scenario where the Coyotes could offer Tavares a lucrative two-year contract as an incentive to waive his no-trade clause.
Friedman acknowledged the plausibility of such a deal, noting that “everything can always be made to make sense.” However, he also expressed his belief that Tavares is likely to remain in Toronto next season.
Why Utah?
Several factors could make Utah an attractive destination for Tavares. A move to Utah would allow him to play a central role on a team with significant potential. The change in scenery could also provide a refreshing opportunity to contribute to a growing franchise.
Will Tavares Waive?
The biggest hurdle to any potential trade is Tavares’ no-trade clause. While Utah may offer a compelling financial package, it remains to be seen whether it would be enough to entice Tavares to leave Toronto, a city he clearly embraces.
What’s Next?
As of now, this is just speculation. However, the rumors surrounding Tavares and Utah are certainly intriguing. The coming days and weeks will likely provide more clarity on Tavares’ future in Toronto.
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