Could the Lightning make a push for this Leafs superstar?
Could the Lightning make a push for this Leafs superstar?
The Tampa Bay Lightning are gearing up for what should be a very eventful offseason. Steven Stamkos' future with the club is the big talking point, but the Lightning also have some decisions to make with pending UFAs like Anthony Duclair and Matt Dumba.
The Lightning's division rival, the Toronto Maple Leafs, also should be in for a massive summer. After another first-round defeat to the Boston Bruins, changes are expected to be on the way for the Original Six club.
The prospect of the Core Four being broken up has been discussed over the last week, and superstar forward Mitch Marner has emerged as their top trade candidate. The 27-year-old winger is entering the final season of his contract and had an underwhelming postseason, posting just one goal and two assists in seven games.
Because of the trade speculation surrounding Marner, Kevin McGran of the Toronto Sun discussed hypothetical landing spots for the superstar. Interestingly, the Lightning was the first club that McGran brought up.
Here's what he said on the matter: "Given he is eligible to sign an extension this summer, a sign-and-trade could well be in the works. Marner would be coveted by any team. Lightning coach Jon Cooper has long sung his praises and Tampa might be willing to part with defenceman Mikhail Sergachev."
While it is crucial to note that McGran is not stating that the Lightning and Leafs are engaging in trade talks, a potential blockbuster involving Marner and Sergachev is an intriguing thought. The Lightning would land a superstar winger, while the Maple Leafs would acquire a much-needed impactful defenseman.
Seeing these two rivals strike a trade of this magnitude would be jaw-dropping but also incredibly surprising. Still, it is a fun trade idea to think about.
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