Zegras, Gibson, Vatrano and EDM 1st 2024 for Marner, Petruzzelli and Benoit
VATRANO - MATTHEWS - NYLANDER
ZEGRAS - TAVARES - TBD
Not only does this trade alleviate Marner's cap hit, it also helps the Maple Leafs acquire a bonafide replacement (Zegras) for John Tavares, who will enter free agency next season and may take a smaller role in terms of ice time and cap hit.
Re-signing Domi and Bertuzzi, vastly improving defensive depth via trade and bringing in an elite starter to mentor Joseph Woll. For Anaheim, Marner brings veteran presence, offensive depth and elite talent that Anaheim sorely lacks. Further, Gibson needs a change of scenery which is something Toronto can definitely provide.
Frank Vatarno is a solid top 9 forward, to add to the depth attained by re-signing Bertuzzi and Max Domi. They've got Bertuzzi, Domi, Matthews, Nylander, Vatrano, Zegras and Tavares in that top nine with Knies and Robertson knocking on the door. It's safe to say that after using the cap savings to re-sign Bertuzzi and Domi, the Maple Leafs should look to free agency to fill some more holes on their roster. I'm thinking Sean Monahan, Elias Lindholm, Matt Duchene, etc.
On defense, there's clearly a ton of work to be done. A partner for Rielly, a partner for McCabe (who is a solid #4 at $2M which is a huge bargain) and a replacement for TJ Brodie.