Key Takeaways:
– The Athletic’s Scott Powers proposes a potential trade between the Chicago Blackhawks and Toronto Maple Leafs.
– Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones and Leafs forward Mitch Marner could be on the chopping block.
– While a Marner-Jones swap may seem attractive, both teams may have reservations due to their distinct positions.
– Despite Marner’s offensive prowess, the Blackhawks’ ongoing rebuild and current cap situation may impede any potential trade.
Trade Talks Round the Corner?
According to recent insights by The Athletic’s Scott Powers, a potential trade between two NHL titans, the Chicago Blackhawks and Toronto Maple Leafs, could involve Blackhawks defenseman, Seth Jones, and Leafs forward, Mitch Marner.
Earlier speculation by Bleacher Report’s Joe Yerdon implied Chicago as a plausible destination for Marner if he waives his No-Move Clause (NMC). However, Powers, who has insider access to Blackhawks information, provides an indepth analysis on the possibility of this trade. Whilst discussing the Marner-Jones potential one-for-one swap, he delivers compelling reasons behind his educated guess indicating a no-trade scenario.
Is Seth Jones Likely to Stay Put?
Powers dissected the potential trade, beginning with the Blackhawks’ interest or lack thereof in trading their notable defenseman, Seth Jones. “Could the Blackhawks trade Jones? While he isn’t untouchable, he delivers multiple benefits to the Blackhawks, and letting him go would leave a considerable vacancy in the roster,” says Powers.
Having been drafted and making his NHL debut in 2013, Seth Jones brings veteran experience to the relatively young Blackhawks’ defence, giving the team a competitive edge in the process. The younger replacements in the free agent market may not be ready to step into his shoes, and those who are, may have reservations about signing short-term contracts with Chicago, adds Powers. Additionally, Jones’ significant salary assists in reaching the cap floor, a critical factor for a team on the route to Stanley Cup competitiveness.
Marner’s Uncertain Future with Chicago
Conversely, Marner, the offensive dynamo, would undoubtedly strengthen any NHL squad, including the Blackhawks, affirms Powers. However, considering Chicago’s current rebuilding phase and a slower season yielding only 52 points, it might not be an opportune time to chase high-profile players like Marner.
Marner’s contract termination in June 2025 will require the Blackhawks to invest in a long-term extension. “Marner’s current $10.9 million salary demands an increase in his next deal,” states Powers, indicating Chicago might hesitate on such a substantial long-term investment, especially during an early rebuild phase.
With the Blackhawks having missed the playoffs for four back-to-back seasons and for the sixth time in the last seven years, this potential trade doesn’t come at the best time. Besides, the Blackhawks command the No. 2 pick in the upcoming 2024 NHL draft, which could provide them with a valuable prospect without having to take on Marner’s hefty contract.
In conclusion, the envisioned Marner-Jones trade may seem tempting on paper, yet the Blackhawks’ current rebuilding process, cap situation, and the Maple Leafs’ potential reservations confirm why Powers’ informed guess indicates a no-go for the swap. Sustaining their mid-sized contracts and focusing on internal development may indeed be the progressive path forward for these franchises.