The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly on the verge of a significant roster overhaul in the coming days, with several major moves potentially in the works as the NHL Draft and free agency approach. General Manager Brad Treliving is said to be exploring various avenues to reshape the team following another disappointing playoff exit, with the future of key players like Mitch Marner and John Tavares hanging in the balance.
One of the biggest question marks surrounding the Leafs is the situation with star winger Mitch Marner. With growing speculation that Marner will test the free agency market, the Leafs are reportedly considering a sign-and-trade deal to recoup some value for the potential loss. Several teams, including the Vegas Golden Knights and Dallas Stars, are rumored to be interested in acquiring Marner, with potential trade pieces like William Karlsson, Tomas Hertl, or Jason Robertson being floated as possible returns for Toronto. A sign-and-trade would also allow the acquiring team to sign Marner to an eight-year extension, potentially lowering his annual cap hit.
The future of captain John Tavares is also a major point of discussion. Contract negotiations between Tavares and the Leafs are reportedly ongoing, with both sides expressing a desire to reach an agreement. However, money appears to be a significant sticking point, with Tavares potentially seeking a deal in the range of $8 million per season. If Tavares and the Leafs are unable to come to terms, the team may explore other options at center, such as Mikael Granlund. Talks are ongoing with Tavares, and a deal is considered more likely than not, but the Leafs are not willing to overpay.
In addition to the forward group, the Leafs' defense could also see some changes. There have been internal discussions about the future of long-time defenseman Morgan Rielly. While Rielly has a full no-movement clause and five years remaining on his contract, a trade could be considered if all parties agree that a fresh start is in order. The Leafs have also been linked to potential blue-line additions, with the team possibly targeting free agents or trade acquisitions to bolster their defensive depth.
As for potential acquisitions, the Leafs have been connected to several players who could address specific needs on the roster. Veteran forward Claude Giroux has emerged as a potential target, with his experience and leadership qualities seen as valuable assets for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. Other potential trade targets include Lawson Crouse, Ross Colton, and Dawson Mercer, all of whom could provide additional scoring and physicality to the Leafs' forward group.
With the NHL Draft approaching, the Leafs have an opportunity to add to their prospect pool, though they currently do not own a first-round pick. The team has six picks in the draft and may look to acquire additional selections, particularly in the later rounds, to bolster their organizational depth. General Manager Brad Treliving has stated that "everything must be on the table" as the Leafs explore all possible options to improve the team.
The coming days promise to be a busy and potentially transformative period for the Toronto Maple Leafs. With key decisions to be made on the future of Mitch Marner and John Tavares, as well as potential changes on defense and additions to the forward group, the Leafs are poised to undergo a significant roster shakeup as they look to finally break through and achieve their Stanley Cup aspirations.
