Every so often, an intriguing trade idea surfaces. This morning, I came across one that’s particularly captivating. Using PuckPedia’s new PuckGM tool, a user crafted a trade proposal that could significantly impact two teams.
Could a blockbuster deal see Mitch Marner and Timothy Liljegren joining the New York Rangers, with the Maple Leafs acquiring Alexis Lafreniere and Jacob Trouba? While speculative, it addresses the idea of moving Marner from the Maple Leafs, a move many fans have been hoping for.
### What the Maple Leafs & Rangers Trade Would Look Like
In this proposed trade, the Maple Leafs would receive Alexis Lafreniere and Jacob Trouba, while the Rangers would get Mitch Marner and Timothy Liljegren.
There are a few reasons why this trade could work:
1. **Immediate Impact for the Rangers**: The Rangers are in their Stanley Cup window and would gain an elite playmaker in Marner to pair with Artemi Panarin. This duo could be devastating offensively, potentially pushing the Rangers deeper into the playoffs. Defenseman Timothy Liljegren would offer the Rangers a young, cost-controlled defenseman, helping offset the loss of Trouba.
2. **Strengthened Defense for the Maple Leafs**: Trouba would significantly bolster Toronto’s defense, providing physicality and leadership on the blue line. While Lafreniere has not fully lived up to his first-overall pick potential, he has a high upside as a forward and might thrive in Toronto’s system. The Maple Leafs would also control his rights as an RFA, allowing for a more manageable cap situation compared to Marner’s current deal.
### Why This Trade Likely Won’t Happen
Despite the potential benefits, several reasons make this trade unlikely:
1. **Marner’s Desire to Stay**: Marner has expressed his desire to remain in Toronto and holds a no-move clause, making a trade far from likely.
2. **Trouba’s Preference to Stay**: Trouba also has a no-trade clause and prefers to stay with the Rangers, further diminishing the likelihood of him waiving his clause.
3. **Financial Constraints for the Rangers**: The Rangers face significant upcoming contract negotiations, including re-signing key players like Igor Shesterkin and K’Andre Miller. Taking on Marner’s $10.9 million cap hit could create financial strain, hindering their ability to retain other crucial players.
### The Bottom Line for a Rangers and Maple Leafs Trade
While the proposed trade presents fascinating possibilities for both teams, the logistical and personal hurdles make it more of a fantasy than a likely reality. Nonetheless, it’s fun to imagine the potential shake-up and its implications for the future of both franchises. This is a key consideration for NHL Trade Talk.