Analyzing the Maple Leafs’ Dilemma with Mitch Marner
In an interview on TSN 1050, insider Darren Dreger discussed the Mitch Marner situation, suggesting that Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving prefers to extend Marner rather than trade him. This brings several considerations to light.
Change Was Promised Following another seven-game loss to the Boston Bruins in the first round, the Maple Leafs’ management stated in their post-mortem press conference that they would be “looking at everything” to finally capture the Stanley Cup. Given the heavy criticism Marner faced for his playoff performance and the media scrutiny, many speculated that he would be traded in the offseason. However, no official statement from the Maple Leafs confirmed Marner’s trade. Although it was hinted that the Core Four might be broken up, nothing was explicitly stated. During their series against Boston, insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned on his 32 Thoughts podcast that unless Toronto staged a major comeback after trailing 3-1, it would mark the end of the Core Four.
Although they didn’t complete the comeback, they came close, showcasing teamwork that led to Game 7. Perhaps the front office evaluated everything and concluded that the Core Four deserves another chance.
If the promised change only involves replacing Sheldon Keefe and Guy Boucher, it seems insufficient. They weren’t the ones playing the games, and after eight years with only one series win, simply changing the coaching staff might not be enough to improve the team’s fortunes.
Who Else Could Go? Marner isn’t the only Core Four member with an expiring contract; captain John Tavares is in the same boat. Could he be the one traded? It seems unlikely, and fans might not react positively.
By the time his contract ends, Tavares will be 34 and unable to demand a high salary in extension talks. Trading him and assigning the captaincy to Auston Matthews might make sense, but it’s crucial for Treliving to avoid past mistakes. He has already signed extensions with Matthews and William Nylander, both including full no-movement clauses.
The Maple Leafs must avoid backing themselves into a corner. While believing you have the right pieces is important, not allowing for adjustments is both arrogant and unwise. After years of sticking to the same strategy, Toronto is finally considering changes. However, with the Core Four players holding full control over their futures, making these changes might prove difficult.
Could the team explore trading Nylander or Matthews? Their high cap hits make this unlikely, and any potential trade would require the player’s consent.
Is Treliving Hesitant? If Dreger is correct and Treliving prefers extending Marner over trading him, what’s the rationale? Is he worried about the fallout from the trade? Is he concerned that Marner might win the Stanley Cup with another team, similar to Nazem Kadri’s success with the Colorado Avalanche?
These questions underscore the complexity of the decision facing the Maple Leafs’ management.
