Ex-NHLer Using New Evidence to Make a Case for the Leafs to Bring Back Marner, Tavares

The Toronto Maple Leafs took their second-round series against the Florida Panthers to seven games before ultimately falling 6-1 in the deciding match.

However, the Carolina Hurricanes, who advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, are faring significantly worse than the Leafs did. They now trail the Panthers 3-0 in their series and have been outscored 16-4 in that span.

The Panthers' dominant playoff run raises an interesting question about the Leafs' much-debated core players.

As per Paul Bissonnette on X:

Despite the disappointment of another early exit, the Leafs pushing Florida to seven games may suggest they're closer to contending for a Stanley Cup than many think. Still, that hasn't stopped significant changes from already beginning to take shape.

General Manager Brad Treliving appears to be taking control over the Leafs' roster decisions, particularly after the dismissal of long-time president Brendan Shanahan. Notably, Treliving did not assemble the current "Core Four", meaning he doesn't have the same allegiance to the players.

Mitch Marner seems all but certain to move on. There is speculation he's already weighing preferred destinations amid widespread speculation following a controversial tenure in Toronto.

Another name to watch is veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly, who also has trade speculation surrounding him. While he's been a cornerstone of the Leafs' blue line, his impact as a top-pairing defensemen has been questioned. That said, he holds a no-movement clause, giving him full control over his future.

On a more positive note, there's reportedly mutual interest in a return from captain John Tavares. The veteran forward seems to be open to signing a hometown discount, which could benefit the Leafs in navigating the salary cap.

Ultimately, even if the Maple Leafs proved more competitive than the Hurricanes against the Panthers, the bottom line remains the same; they lost, and in the NHL, losing leads to change.