They have enough cap space to get some quality players, even with JT resigned as a hometown discount. But it really depends on what they want to do, and how far they want to go with matchup lines. There are other center options out there, more two-way guys, but goal-scoring might be a problem. JT could very well score another 30+ goals next year; hard to replace that. – Gravy
They might grab a lower or middle tier free agent or two, but bringing in a top tier talent is probably going to involve a trade. Given the Leafs track record with trades and their current relations with other GM’s, I wouldn’t expect to pull off a case of highway robbery, but maybe Tree can get creative with three-way trades, retention, etc.
I’d like to see the following :
1) Marner stays for $11m or $12m. (very very very unlikely)
2) Marner does a sign and trade allowing the Leafs to recoup some assets (again, not very likely).
3) Weaponize the free space if Marner walks, but don’t be stupid with it. Don’t go throwing term at dudes on the wrong side of 30 unless an eventual trip to Robidas Island is part of the plan (ala the Gourde contract). Also, don’t shoot your wad on a guy like Ehlers. Who does this leave? Probably guys like Gavikrov, Beauvillier, Fabro, Tanev, and maybe take a flier on a project like Drouin or Patty Kane if the price is cheap.
4) Jesus Fucking Christ, we gotta do something about Rielly. If he’s coked out, put him in rehab and bury his caphit. If he refuses a trade, then redeploy him as a second pairing guy and go after someone like Provorov. Leafs need another top pair D guy. It won’t come cheap. Maybe use some of the Marner cap space. Also, minor tip here – chatter is that Tampa is cutting bait with Nick Perbix. He’s actually a solid 3rd pair guy who will come cheap. I’d snag him if he leaves Tampa (just for depth).
5) Blockbuster trade that brings in an elite centerman or winger to replace Marner. I’ll hold my breath on this one, but I’m giving Tree a chance here to blow us away with something unforseen and off the board.
I think Berube could make Marner and the “DNA” improve if the right pieces are brought in to compliment him,as Uggie keeps going on about. He’s not wrong about that. But, who is actually available right now? I don’t want to hear Bennett or Marchand. The first is a dirty piece of shit that wouldn’t come to TO unless he’s grossly overpaid, and the other is a bionic geezer piece of shit who is definitely on the wrong side of the aging curve to throw term at.
Realistically, having said all of the rambling shit above, unless Matthews goes Super Saiyan next year and puts the team on his back, the Leafs are going to take a step back without Marner.