They need a scapegoat, and they've found one. It's incredible to treat a player who has more than a point per game every season in this way, but that's still the case.
The real problem, the reason why the Leafs lost, is because the goalies aren't getting the job done in front of the net, and any fan from another team knows that.
When you spend over 50% of your salary cap on four players, it's inevitable that the rest of the team will suffer in terms of depth.
David Pagnotta came out with a big statement, and it could change everything for the Leafs and their possible new trading partner, the Predators.
The insider claims that Juuse Saros would be the return, and that makes a lot of sense. Perhaps the Preds would have to pay a bit more, but not much.
If this trade happens, the Leafs will save $6 million on their salary cap, which would allow them, in addition to having one of the best goalies in the NHL, to sign one or more players.
Certainly, Marner is a star, and it would be a heavy loss for Toronto, but they should manage fine without him, especially since he'll be seeking a salary increase next summer when he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
POLL | ||
In your opinion, is Mitch Marner worth more than Juuse Saros on the trade market? | ||
Yes | 126 | 44.8 % |
No | 155 | 55.2 % |
List of polls |