• Wed. Dec 11th, 2024

“Four Maple Leafs with Bargain Contracts That Could Be Trade Chips”

The Toronto Maple Leafs will need to manage their salary cap carefully before the season begins. Additionally, they could be active at the trade deadline, whether to acquire new players or offload existing contracts, depending on their position in the standings. As a result, evaluating which contracts are tradeable would be a smart move.

Nicholas Robertson (1-Year, $875K)
Nicholas Robertson’s one-year, $875K contract could become a valuable asset if he has a strong start to the season. After a dispute with the Leafs and a trade request, Robertson returned on a team-friendly deal. If he surpasses last season’s production, this contract will be a steal.

In 2023-24, Robertson recorded 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games, despite being moved between the AHL and NHL. He’s expected to have a chance in a top-six role, a key opportunity. If he excels, other teams may express interest, and if he remains unsatisfied, the Leafs could trade him at peak value.

Calle Jarnkrok (Two More Seasons, $2.1M)
Calle Jarnkrok has been highlighted as a potential trade piece by *The Fourth Period* if the Leafs seek cap relief. Even if he isn’t traded before the season, he’s a player to watch. With two seasons remaining at $2.1 million per year, he’s productive, though health concerns exist.

He played 52 games last season and 73 the previous year, contributing as a depth player capable of scoring 20 goals under the right circumstances. His salary is reasonable, and teams like Columbus, Chicago, Anaheim, or even Calgary might find his contract appealing as they rebuild.

Jake McCabe (1 More Year, $2M)
Jake McCabe has expressed a desire to stay with Toronto, and talks are ongoing regarding a contract extension. However, if negotiations stall and McCabe demands too much, he may explore free agency. If the Leafs anticipate this, and the team is struggling ahead of the playoffs, McCabe could be a challenging decision at the trade deadline.

McCabe’s contract is attractive, with the Chicago Blackhawks having retained 50% of his salary during his trade to Toronto in 2023. If made available, teams would likely show significant interest. As a potential rental, he could be highly sought after.

Max Pacioretty (Deal TBD)
Max Pacioretty’s upcoming contract with Toronto will likely be a bargain if he delivers on the ice. Expected to sign a one-year deal between the league minimum and $1 million, Pacioretty could become an appealing trade target. Although teams had the chance to sign him in the offseason, Toronto secured him, and if they can trade him for a profit, they will.

Whether he’s moved depends on his performance and the Leafs’ standing. If he plays well but the team struggles, he’ll likely be shopped as a rental. However, if Toronto remains competitive, they’ll likely keep him, even if it’s for just one season.

By Admin

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