Welcome to another edition of NHL Rumours! Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final is tonight. However, the latest buzz around the league has not slowed down. Nothing is official as of late, but the growing buzz is generating with each passing day. Today’s rumours focus on the Vegas Golden Knights and if they make a big splash or not.
NHL Rumours
Rumour: Elliote Friedman discusses the Vegas Golden Knights and Mitch Marner
There is no bigger trade chip right now than Mitch Marner. While goaltenders Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames and Linus Ullmark of the Boston Bruins are getting attention, Marner is a big time player. Marner is part of the “core four” that has shaped the Maple Leafs roster the last several seasons. The trade buzz is warranted. Marner is in the final year of his contract and makes $10.9 million. Also, he has a full no movement clause that kicked in last year. Moving on from has its challenges.
On Insider Trading with TSN, they discussed Marner in full. Marner plans on training in the offseason and will return to training camp ready to roll. Also, there is belief that Marner will play the final year of his contract. For Brad Treliving this is a nightmare scenario. After the 2021-22 season, he watched Johnny Gaudreau leave in free agency for nothing. Essentially Marner can do the same. Although, the latest NHL Rumours suggest there could be a trade partner.
A Vegas Blockbuster Once Again
Friedman goes on to mention that the Vegas Golden Knights could be in the mix for Marner. It sounds crazy, especially since Vegas is operating with under $2 million in available cap space. In addition, Marners contract would be difficult to take on. The only way this works is by moving key players, making this a blockbuster trade.
Marner would be a huge offensive weapon. He would slot in next to either Jack Eichel or Tomas Hertl and would give the Golden Knights a dynamic offensive threat. The Golden Knights still need to figure out if they can bring back Jonathan Marchessault. I’d not, Marner is a great addition and is also younger.
Marner excels at both ends of the ice and was even a finalist for the Selke Trophy during the 2022-23 season. He’s been a steady producer his entire career. Marner has yet to finish a season below 50 points and set a career high of 99 during the 2022-23 season. He is a three time 90 point player, so that’s huge for Vegas.
Salary Cap Gymnastics Will Be The Challenge
In order for the latest NHL Rumours to come to light, salary cap gymnastics would be in full effect. Whether it is a three teams trade or just moving numerous parts, figuring out how to fit Marner under the salary cap will be a challenge. Marner does have the final say with his no move clause. However, he could get the pay day he desires in Vegas. No state income tax has its perks and it can be used to his advantage here. It will be interesting to see what blockbuster comes of this.
Main Photo: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
