TRADE ALERT: Maple Leafs have trade interest in Sharks’ defenceman and alternate captain
Reports indicate that the San Jose Sharks, anticipating the upcoming March 8th NHL trade deadline, appear poised to obtain substantial returns for two of their players – defenseman Mario Ferraro and center Luke Kunin. Notably, the Toronto Maple Leafs express interest in acquiring these talents, and according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Leafs are inclined to relinquish a first-round draft selection to secure a player under contract. Both Ferraro and Kunin possess unique qualities that appeal to prospective teams; Ferraro holds a four-year, $13 million contract, whereas Kunin retains restricted free agency status beyond this season.
Pagnotta suggests that incorporating a first-round pick within a transaction proposal could attract mutual interest from the Sharks and either the Maple Leafs or the Edmonton Oilers. Given the financial implications involved, however, further negotiations would necessitate the inclusion of contracts from either Toronto or Edmonton to balance the fiscal equation.
During the ongoing 2023-24 NHL season, Mario Ferraro has contributed 14 points consisting of one goal and 13 assists despite a -22 plus/minus rating. Despite leading the San Jose Sharks in hits since his NHL debut in 2019, Ferraro finds himself among the team’s tradable assets amidst the club’s present circumstances. In December, Ferraro expressed reluctance about leaving the franchise, stating that he feels indebted to the organization and its supporters. Nonetheless,
Ferraro’s sentiments did not deter General Manager Mike Grier from exploring possible trades involving the star defender.Prior to joining the Sharks via a trade with the Nashville Predators in July 2022, Kunin had established ties with eight goals, placing him amongst the team’s top scorers. It seems that Grier’s initial gamble on Kunin could yield significant returns once again, given the center’s continued contributions to the team’
