In the last 48 hours, there has been increasing speculation about a significant trade involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Nashville Predators. Despite this, Mitch Marner remains firm in his desire to stay with the Maple Leafs, while Predators’ GM Barry Trotz continues to show interest in extending goaltender Juuse Saros’s contract. However, rumors suggest that a trade between the two teams is on the table and may already be under discussion.

Over the past few days, the possibility of a trade between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nashville Predators has been gaining more attention and discussion. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period and NHL Network stated that he believes Nashville has reached out to the Leafs, saying “if you consider moving him, give us a call,” implying interest in acquiring a Leafs player. Additionally, Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star has reported on the two teams potentially engaging in trade talks.

Numerous trade proposals involving Mitch Marner have surfaced, with teams like Columbus, Calgary, Anaheim, and others being mentioned in connection with him. While various trade scenarios are circulating online, many of these proposals face obstacles that make them unlikely to materialize. However, the potential trade with the Nashville Predators addresses several of these issues, particularly Marner’s willingness to join the team.

Unlike other teams, the Predators do not have salary cap constraints to contend with. They do not need to negotiate with Juuse Saros to waive a no-trade clause, and they have the financial flexibility to acquire Marner and potentially extend his contract without salary retention from the Maple Leafs.

The Predators have a need for a player of Marner’s caliber and have the option to move Saros, especially with Yaroslav Askarov potentially ready for a starting role. While GM Barry Trotz is interested in retaining Saros, he is open to trading him, and the Maple Leafs may benefit from acquiring a reliable NHL goalie given their goaltending situation.

Nashville is viewed as an attractive destination for players due to the city’s appeal, the team’s competitive nature, and the positive environment. Marner could thrive in Nashville, appreciated for his skills while enjoying a lower profile. With talented teammates like Filip Forsberg and former teammate Ryan O’Reilly, Marner would have strong support, and the team’s ability to attract quality free agents would further enhance his experience with the Predators.

Does it make sense to have Woll and Saros as a tandem?

The primary question revolves around the viability of a Woll and Saros goaltending tandem for Toronto. Initially, it is widely acknowledged that this duo surpasses the Woll and Samsonov combination. The focus then shifts to the long-term strategies concerning both Saros and Woll. Will Saros be open to a potential shared starting role (1B)? Can Woll maintain consistent health to assume the primary goaltender position regularly? The latter poses a more significant concern heading into the offseason.

For the Maple Leafs, the immediate priority is understanding what to anticipate for the upcoming season. While signing Saros remains a decision for the future, his role in the 2024-25 season is crucial for the Leafs. Goaltending stability will be a key requirement, and a tandem of Saros and Woll addresses this need.

With aspirations to compete strongly next season, even in the absence of Marner, the Maple Leafs are expected to perform at a high level as per management’s expectations. Saros’s presence will bolster their efforts, alleviating concerns about Woll’s injury history, freeing up cap space for additional roster moves, and potentially positioning the Leafs favorably in a trade scenario that minimizes adverse impacts.