Vegas Golden Knights right wing Jonathan Marchessault, right, celebrates his first period goal with goaltender Logan Thompson (36) during Game 2 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars in Dallas, Wednesday, April 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
The biggest story for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season is undoubtedly the status of star winger Mitch Marner. Ever since the Maple Leafs were eliminated from the playoffs, rumors have been swirling about him. If a core player is to be traded, Marner seems the most likely candidate.
Currently, there haven’t been any discussions about a contract extension or a potential move. General manager Brad Treliving is evaluating all possibilities regarding Marner. Although the possibility of him waiving his no-trade clause remains, nothing is official until it happens. If and when it does, many teams will likely show interest in the talented, playmaking winger.
One team that could be a suitable trade partner for the Maple Leafs is the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite having their own cap challenges, the Golden Knights possess two key players that could interest the Maple Leafs: defenseman Shea Theodore and goaltender Logan Thompson. Acquiring Theodore would boost the Leafs’ offense and mobility on the blue line, while Thompson would provide stability in goal.
Full Trade
Vegas Golden Knights Receive: Mitch Marner and a 2024 fifth-round pick
Toronto Maple Leafs Receive: Shea Theodore, Logan Thompson and a 2025 second-round pick
While the Maple Leafs would acquire the pieces they need and gain cap space to address other areas, the Vegas Golden Knights would add another dynamic player to their top-six. This player is not only a three-time 90-point scorer but also a two-time All-Star.
Marner could benefit from a fresh start. Although he won’t be playing with Auston Matthews, he could join forces with Jack Eichel on a skilled, offensive team where he can continue to be a two-way threat and playmaker. Even if the Maple Leafs retain some of Marner’s salary to fit Vegas’ cap situation, it would only be for one season and wouldn’t impact them significantly in the future.
Whether or not Vegas becomes a trade partner for Marner, they possess two key assets—Theodore and Thompson—that could strengthen the Maple Leafs. Both players would make an immediate impact next season, and the team would have the cap space to extend their contracts for the future.
