- The Toronto Maple Leafs need to trade their 2024 first-round draft pick if they want to contend for the Stanley Cup next season. Reports indicate that the team is already considering such a move, having shown willingness to trade the pick for Jacob Markstrom. This suggests they should continue pursuing trades for a top-tier goaltender or defenseman.
A prime target could be Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators, assuming he doesn’t sign an extension. Although the No. 23 overall pick alone might not secure Saros, it’s a solid starting point. Mitch Marner, despite being a valuable trade asset, comes with a high cap hit that makes other teams wary, whereas a first-round pick holds the allure of untapped potential and cheaper contracts under an entry-level deal.
Having several promising rookies who might outperform their contracts, the Leafs can afford to trade their first-round pick. They’ve had success in recent drafts, giving them the flexibility to use this pick to acquire top talent now. The draft often sees major trades, and packaging the first-round pick with Marner could attract significant interest from other teams, potentially transforming the Leafs’ roster.
If the Leafs make this trade, it could bring in the star defenseman or goaltender they need, significantly enhancing their chances for the upcoming season.
