Leafs Eye Trade Market to Replace Departing Free Agents, Marner Included
The Toronto Maple Leafs may turn to the trade market to remain competitive as they face the possibility of losing key free agents.
With Mitch Marner likely headed for free agency and few game-changing players available on the open market, the Leafs are expected to explore potential trades to fill the gap. One name being linked to Toronto is New Jersey Devils forward Dawson Mercer, according to analyst Anthony Petrielli of MapleLeafsHotStove.
“He’s played some center,” Petrielli noted. “It would be interesting to see the Leafs test him out at center alongside William Nylander for a stretch and assess how he fits. Mercer can keep up with Nylander and finish scoring chances, but it remains to be seen if the two could handle the defensive responsibilities together.”
Petrielli emphasized that young, skilled forwards with speed and scoring touch are always valuable: “Mercer is still young enough that there’s potential left to unlock. I like the idea of injecting more youth into the Leafs’ top nine.”
Mercer, 23, was drafted 18th overall in 2020 and is under contract for two more seasons at $4 million annually. He tallied 19 goals and 17 assists in 82 games last year, down from his career-best 56-point season.
Trade Rumors Swirl Around Mercer
Although a Mercer trade would be unexpected, NHL insider Nick Kypreos reports that the Devils may be open to moving him. Kypreos included Mercer on his offseason trade board, suggesting the player could benefit from a change in scenery.
“GM Tom Fitzgerald has promised to add more offense and shake up the roster,” Kypreos wrote. “Erik Haula has already been dealt, and Mercer remains on our trade watch list. Despite his potential, he hasn’t matched his breakout 27-goal season and could be part of a move to improve the Devils’ roster balance.”
Marner’s Future in Toronto Looks Bleak
Meanwhile, Leafs GM Brad Treliving confirmed that Marner is on track to hit free agency. Speaking ahead of the NHL Draft, Treliving said talks haven’t progressed much.
“There hasn’t been much change. We’ve stayed in touch, but unless something shifts significantly, I expect he’ll test the market,” said Treliving.
Marner is coming off a 102-point season (27 goals, 75 assists in 81 games), and his departure would leave a major hole in the lineup—one the Leafs might look to fill through trade rather than free agency.
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