A List of Penalties Vegas Could Face for Signing Marner if Leafs File Tampering Charges

With NHL free agency opening on July 1st, teams across the league are preparing to make major moves.

One of the biggest names on the market is Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner, undoubtedly the most coveted free agent this offseason.

In the last 24 hours, speculation swirled that the Vegas Golden Knights and the Maple Leafs were working towards finalizing a sign-and-trade deal involving Marner, with Nicolas Roy reportedly among the return.

While nothing has materialized yet, rumours have emerged suggesting that the Golden Knights may have already reached out to Marner, which would be a violation of league rules if done before July 1st.

Elliotte Friedman added fuel to the fire, noting that league executives believe the NHL is ready to crack down on any improper negotiations:

According to a report, if Vegas is found guilty of tampering, they could face serious penalties. These include forfeiture of draft picks, hefty fines, or loss of the players they sign.

Vegas has already started clearing cap space, potentially in anticipation of acquiring Marner, causing raised eyebrows around the league.

If Marner signs with the Golden Knights the moment free agency opens, Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving would be well within his rights to file a tampering complaint with the league, and Vegas could be in real trouble if that happens.

Marner was lights out this regular season, amassing 102 points, breaking the 100-point mark for the first time in his career. For a team like Vegas, he could be the missing offensive piece to push them over the top.

With no trade finalized and Marner's departure looming, Toronto should be determined to get something for their star winger, so hopefully this gets done and the Leafs are appeased enough by the return to abandon any tampering complaints they may have had otherwise.