The Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly explored multiple trade scenarios involving Mitch Marner before his departure, ultimately resulting in a sign-and-trade deal that sent him to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Nicolas Roy. The move marked the end of Marner's tenure in Toronto, a period characterized by both significant contributions on the ice and increasing friction with the fanbase.
Several factors contributed to the Maple Leafs' willingness to consider trading Marner. With Auston Matthews and William Nylander locked into long-term extensions and John Tavares likely to remain with the team, Marner and defenseman Morgan Rielly were identified as core players who could potentially be moved. Marner, being younger and possessing higher offensive upside, was seen as the player who would command the greater return in a trade.
However, trading Marner was complicated by his full no-movement clause (NMC), which gave him significant control over his destination. Despite the NMC, the Maple Leafs reportedly gauged the market for Marner, and several teams were rumored to have expressed interest.
One team that was potentially in the mix was the Carolina Hurricanes. It was reported that a potential trade involving Mikko Rantanen fell through because Marner refused to waive his no-movement clause.
The Buffalo Sabres were another team that could have been a potential destination. The Sabres have a surplus of young talent and cap space, making them a plausible trading partner. A trade to Buffalo would have allowed Marner to remain close to Toronto. However, a deal within the division may not have been something the Maple Leafs were looking for.
Ultimately, Marner landed with the Vegas Golden Knights after a sign-and-trade. The move involved accusations of tampering and made Marner "public enemy No. 1" in Toronto. After the trade, he signed an eight-year, $96 million deal.
Marner's departure from Toronto was also influenced by his contract negotiations. His camp was accused of using media to get top dollar.
His return to Scotiabank Arena with the Golden Knights is expected to be met with a hostile atmosphere.
