Stanley Cup Champ Confirmed to Be Leaving the Kings; Is He a Fit for the Maple Leafs?

As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare for their first season without superstar Mitch Marner, general manager Brad Treliving has taken the roster in a new direction.

Rather than pursuing another high-priced star, Treliving has opted to use the cap space on depth pieces, adding Dakota Joshua, Matias Maccelli, and Nicolas Roy.

However, a future opportunity may arise to land a superstar centre -- one who could be available as early as the trade deadline this season.

According to Jason Gregor on the DFO Rundown, as shared by NHL Rumour Report on X:

It remains unclear whether Kopitar plans to retire after the 2024-25 season or simply leave the Los Angeles Kings. Either way, the possibility of acquiring a player of his calibre would be exciting for any team.

Kopitar is entering his 20th NHL season with the Kings. Over his illustrious career, he has won two Stanley Cups, three Lady Byng Trophies, and two Selke Trophies. He remains productive as well, posting 67 points in 81 games last season and accumulating an impressive 1,278 points in 1,454 career games.

If Kopitar does become available, he would immediately give the Leafs one of the best 1-2-3 punches down the middle with Auston Matthews and John Tavares both already locked in.

While this remains only a rumour, the Maple Leafs would be wise to pursue Kopitar if the opportunity presents itself. Even at 38 years old, he is still an elite two-way centre with championship experience and the ability to make a major impact.