With Mitch Marner’s departure to the Vegas Golden Knights, the Toronto Maple Leafs, led by Auston Matthews, are exploring options to strengthen the roster with experienced, winning profiles, which could lead them to consider key additions from the back-to-back champion Florida Panthers.
Marner’s exit came after several days of speculation and rumors, following the end of his six-year contract and his cycle with the Maple Leafs. Toronto and Vegas agreed on a sign-and-trade deal to resolve the situation.
According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Leafs are already looking to reinforce their lineup for next season and checked in on St. Louis Blues right wing Jordan Kyrou, although nothing concrete materialized to advance talks. In this context, it appears they are also eyeing a champion from the Panthers.
Which Panthers player could interest Toronto?
As Pagnotta shared on Leafs Morning Take, Matthews’ Maple Leafs are reportedly monitoring winger Evan Rodrigues. “The Leafs poked around on Jordan Kyrou; I don’t think there was anything close there, but it’s somebody they checked in on; could they poke around on Evan Rodrigues?” the insider said.
Evan Rodrigues, of the Panthers
Pagnotta’s comment isn’t random, as Florida is looking to relieve cap pressure after extending Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett. The front office has set its priorities clearly and now aims to meet all conditions to chase a three-peat, even if that means parting ways with players like Rodrigues.
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NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs send a clear message about what happened with Mitch Marner in trade to Golden Knights
What could Rodrigues bring to the Maple Leafs?
Rodrigues won two Stanley Cups with Florida and offers an attractive combination of championship experience and a manageable salary at $3 million per year. In addition, his tally of 15 goals and 17 assists in 82 games last season provides solid depth to the forward lines.
