Leafs News: Toronto targets Penguins star to fill Mitch Marner’s spot after his move to the Golden Knights

The Toronto Maple Leafs need to cover Mitch Marner’s departure in the best way possible. It appears they’ve already started working on it, eyeing a star forward from the Pittsburgh Penguins to bolster their offense.

Toronto has been one of the NHL’s most storied franchises since its foundation in 1917. The Maple Leafs are the second-most successful team in terms of Stanley Cup wins, with 13 titles, but success has eluded them in recent decades.

Despite their rich history, the Maple Leafs haven’t lifted the Stanley Cup since the 1966–67 season. They’ve tried to build a championship-caliber roster, but things haven’t gone their way in recent years.

Due to Mitch Marner’s exit, Maple Leafs eye Penguins star as replacement

This offseason, the Maple Leafs fought hard to retain Mitch Marner. The forward was seeking a lucrative contract extension and, after failing to secure it from Toronto, he explored the market.

Marner had several suitors, but it was the Vegas Golden Knights who ultimately offered him the best deal. His departure has left a significant gap in Toronto’s offense.

While losing Marner was a blow, the Maple Leafs’ front office is focused on moving forward. The team is now actively looking for someone to step in, and a high-profile name could soon be on the radar.

According to NHL insider David Alter, Bryan Rust has emerged as a target for the Maple Leafs. The right winger is under a six-year, $30.75 million deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins, carrying a $5.125 million cap hit. However, the main obstacle may be the price tag Pittsburgh sets for him even though he may be the perfect fit to replace Marner.

“I think he would (fit in),” Alter said on Friday, via the “Leafs Morning Take” podcast. “It would just be, you know, if you have him in there, then where’s the spot? Right, like it’s probably second line instead of first line, because you have William Nylander, who plays on the right side as well.”