Following another early playoff exit, the Toronto Maple Leafs are facing the possibility of major roster turnover.
Toronto is expected to explore options to retool its forward group, mostly because of the potential departures of stars Mitch Marner and John Tavares.
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Both players will become unrestricted free agents on July 1, unless they agree to and sign a contract extension between the end of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that date.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman believes one potential target could be Nashville Predators forward Jonathan Marchessault.
Friedman floated the idea during Monday’s episode of Sportsnet’s “32 Thoughts” podcast, citing Marchessault’s pedigree as a Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe winner.
“Jonathan Marchessault,” Friedman said. “I freely admit this is purely off the top of my head. Tough year in Nashville—they need to make some changes.
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”He’s 34 years old, (under contract for) four more years, a fierce competitor… Depending on how it all shakes out, that was another name that jumped into my head.”
Marchessault is coming off scoring 56 points in 78 games during a difficult season in Nashville, his first with the Predators. The veteran center carries a $5.5 million cap hit through 2029 and holds a no-movement clause.
Nashville Predators center Jonathan Marchessault (81) skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs.Ryan Sun-Imagn Images
Marner, asked about his future after Sunday’s 6-1 Game 7 loss to Florida, said he was still processing the elimination.
“I don’t have any thoughts right now,” Marner said. “Pretty devastated with what just happened.”
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Tavares, on the other hand, didn’t hesitate and confirmed his wish to return to Toronto next season.
”Yes,” Tavares said. ”I’ve loved it, and it’s been amazing for myself and for my family.”
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