The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing big questions this offseason, and one trade proposal has them moving a star pending free agent.
A user on PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool suggested a blockbuster trade: sending Mitch Marner to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Mikko Rantanen.
Maple Leafs receive:
- Mikko Rantanen
Avalanche receive:
- Mitch Marner
This one-for-one swap would be one of the most significant trades in recent NHL history. The Leafs would get Rantanen, who is in the final year of his six-year, $55.5 million contract. He would slot in as their top-line right winger and potentially play center, bringing more scoring ability and Stanley Cup experience, having been a key player in the Avalanche’s 2022 championship run. Last season, Rantanen tallied 42 goals and 62 assists in 80 games for 104 points.
In return, the Avalanche would acquire Marner, also in the final year of his six-year, $65.41 million contract. Known for his playmaking, Marner could enhance Colorado’s top line alongside Nathan MacKinnon. Last season with Toronto, Marner posted 26 goals and 59 assists in 69 games for 85 points.
Praise for Marner from Avalanche Star
During the offseason, Marner trained with MacKinnon, who praised Marner’s skills, saying, “Marner gets a lot of flak in Toronto, but he’s honestly one of the best players in the league… He stuck out as one of the best.” Both players are expected to play together again for Team Canada.
Marner’s Desire to Stay in Toronto
Despite offseason trade rumors, no deal was made, and Marner expressed his desire to stay with the Maple Leafs. In an interview with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, he said he’s letting his agent handle negotiations, aiming to sign an extension before he becomes a free agent on July 1.
Marner, drafted fourth overall in 2015, remains passionate about the team and the fanbase, emphasizing his long-term goal to remain in Toronto.