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Mitch Marner deal could net Leafs a top goalie, per Insider
Photo credit: Maple Leafs
An NHL Insider has floated a very interesting proposal involving Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner and the Nashville Predators that has many wondering if there's a deal that can be reached between the two sides.
There's no question that the Maple Leafs need to shore up their goaltending this summer after it had essentially cost them the series against Boston in Round 1.
Joseph Woll is highly skilled, yet has faced some durability issues. Samsonov has played well at times, but consistency and confidence issues pose real problems for him. Bringing in a viable #1 goaltender could prove to be a real difference-maker for the Maple Leafs.
The trade proposal in question, which was presented by The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, would be centered around Mitch Marner for Juuse Saros, with some balancing pieces involved in the trade to satiate both teams.
"Goaltender Juuse Saros, like Marner, will soon be on an expiring contract. With Yaroslav Askarov waiting in the wings, moving Saros for extra fire power up front could be what the doctor ordered...
Now, I'd have to believe other pieces would be in play, as Marner and Saros would be the primaries, and I would have to assume an extension for both would need to be part of the mix, as well – neither is eligible to sign an extension until July 1 – but this is a move that makes sense for both clubs and I wonder if it gains momentum this summer."
-Pagnotta on a potential Marner for Saros swap.
Now, I'd have to believe other pieces would be in play, as Marner and Saros would be the primaries, and I would have to assume an extension for both would need to be part of the mix, as well – neither is eligible to sign an extension until July 1 – but this is a move that makes sense for both clubs and I wonder if it gains momentum this summer."
-Pagnotta on a potential Marner for Saros swap.
Saros, who has posted a .914 SV% or better in 7 of his last 8 seasons, is one of the consensus best goaltenders in the NHL. Playing 67, 64 and 64 games in his past 3 seasons, Saros can handle a heavy workload - and handle it well.
The 29-year-old Finnish netminder has posted at least 33 wins in each of his last 3 seasons, and while he is on the smaller side for goalies, standing just 5'11, and 180 lbs, his lateral movement is among the best in the NHL and his quick reaction time and athleticism is second to none.
Do you think the Leafs should trade Mitch Marner in a deal involving Juuse Saros? Let us know in the poll below!
| POLL | ||
MAI 12 | 972 ANSWERS Mitch Marner deal could net Leafs a top goalie, per Insider Should the Leafs trade Mitch Marner to Nashville for Juuse Saros +? | ||
| Sign me up | 295 | 30.3 % |
| Not a chance | 228 | 23.5 % |
| Nashville won't trade Saros. | 216 | 22.2 % |
| Marner won't waive for Nashville | 233 | 24 % |
| List of polls | ||
