Leafs Rumored to Trade for $47.2M Forward to Offset Potential Marner Departure
With Mitch Marner expected to leave the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency, one fan-generated trade proposal suggests a path forward: acquiring forward William Karlsson from the Vegas Golden Knights.
This trade idea, created using the PuckPedia PuckGM tool, would send David Kampf, a 2027 second-round pick, and a 2025 third-round pick (via Colorado) to Vegas. In return, Toronto would land Karlsson, a veteran center with two years remaining on his eight-year, $47.2 million contract.
This hypothetical deal benefits both teams. Toronto would gain a proven top-six forward to help replace Marner’s production, while Vegas would free up cap space — potentially to pursue Marner in free agency. Karlsson, 32, could fill a major hole as the Leafs’ second-line center and boost their secondary scoring. He recorded 29 points in 53 games last season and once hit a career-high of 78 points.
For Vegas, Kampf could slot in as a reliable third- or fourth-line center, but the real motive would be to clear salary cap room. Kampf has two years remaining on a four-year, $9.6 million deal.
Marner Reportedly Interested in Vegas
Although Marner isn’t part of the trade, the move could help facilitate his signing with Vegas. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun mentioned that Marner has interest in joining either the Golden Knights or Florida Panthers if he hits free agency on July 1. Other teams such as Anaheim, Detroit, and Chicago are also expected to express interest.
High Stakes Offseason for Toronto
Following yet another early playoff exit, the Maple Leafs are undergoing organizational changes. Brendan Shanahan is out as President, and new leadership is now steering the ship. CEO Keith Pelley reaffirmed his confidence in GM Brad Treliving and new head coach Craig Berube to turn the team into a championship contender.
“We owe it to our fans to win championships,” Pelley stated. “And we won’t stop until we reach that goal.”
Toronto faces a critical offseason, with both Marner and John Tavares becoming unrestricted free agents, while Matthew Knies is a restricted free agent.
