Breaking: Toronto Maple Leafs Officially Announced The Departure Of Another Top Veteran Player

Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs has been the subject of trade speculation throughout the offseason, and one proposed trade idea involves sending the star forward to the St. Louis Blues. The trade pitch was created using PuckPedia’s new PuckGM tool, which allows users to simulate trades.

In the proposed trade, the Maple Leafs would send Marner, along with Ryan Reaves and RFA Alex Steeves, to the Blues. In return, Toronto would receive Robert Thomas and a 2027 second-round pick. This deal would be significant, as it would involve the Leafs moving Marner while also shedding Reaves’ contract. Thomas, who is currently on an eight-year, $65 million contract, would be the key piece coming back to Toronto, where he could potentially replace Marner on the right wing or serve as the team’s second-line center. Last season, Thomas posted 26 goals and 60 assists, totaling 86 points in 82 games for St. Louis.

For the Blues, acquiring Marner, who is entering the final year of his six-year, $65.41 million contract, would provide a top-tier player who could thrive in a new environment. Additionally, the Blues would reacquire Reaves, a fan favorite known for his toughness, and Steeves, a young forward with potential who has only played in seven NHL games so far.

However, a potential complication arises from Robert Thomas’ past issues with Craig Berube, the former Blues coach who is now the head coach of the Maple Leafs. Berube previously criticized Thomas publicly, questioning his commitment to the team. Thomas responded by expressing frustration, stating that Berube’s comments were not accurate.

Despite the trade rumors, Marner has expressed his desire to stay with the Maple Leafs, as he grew up in the Greater Toronto Area and considers playing for his hometown team a privilege. As he enters the final year of his contract, Marner reiterated his love for being part of the Maple Leafs organization, though he avoided discussing the trade rumors in detail. In his NHL career, Marner has recorded 194 goals and 445 assists for 639 points in 576 games.