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Trade or Tamper: The Standoff for Mitch Marner. From Jay Tup |
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Trade or Tamper: The Standoff for Mitch Marner
The clock is ticking on Mitch Marner's tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs. His time with the team will effectively end at midnight tonight, leaving him free to sign a new contact as of noon on Tuesday unless the Maple Leafs can agree to agree to terms on a trade.
While a last-minute deal previously seemed unlikely, new information appears to have created a sense of urgency. According to multiple NHL Insiders, notably Elliotte Friedman, Frank Seravalli, and Hockey Buzz’s Eklund, the Maple Leas are pushing harsh for a deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.
Why would Vegas give up the assets for a player they could sign for free?
The main reason might be a direct threat from the Maple Leafs. The two teams have been linked in Marn her-related trade rumors since last summer, and it now seems the Leafs feel Vegas has crossed multiple lines in their pursuit. The situation is reportedly so dire that the Leafs are considering fling tampa ring charges if a trade is not consummated.
This threat of tampering should be taken very seriously by the Golden Knights. Offending teams can face fines up to $5 million, forfeiture of draft picks, and—most importantly for both Vegas and Marner—the termination of any signed contract. Marner himself could also face a suspension and a fine of up to $1 million.
For years, the NHL has been looking to make an example out of a team for tampering. Now, it looks like they may finally have their chance, unless all parties can reach a deal that satisfies everyone.
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