Exchange Robert Thomas for Mitch Marner: Hazards Ahead for the Blues.
There are trade rumors circulating about the St. Louis Blues and the Toronto Maple Leafs, about a possible trade that would send Robert Thomas and a second-round choice to acquire Mitch Marner. While the team would be energized by Marner’s star power, their plans to rebuild might be compromised if they traded Thomas, their top scorer. Marner’s fit in St. Louis and the cost of a large contract for a guy who hasn’t been used in their system are two major concerns. Thomas’s retention is seen as critical to the Blues’ long-term plan, highlighting the significance of long-term talent development. Doug Armstrong, the executive, is expected to put stability ahead of large trades that could result in benefits in the near term at the expense of long-term performance.
Based on the Figures
The Blues’ top scorer from the previous campaign was Robert Thomas.
The team’s cap hit would be greatly increased by Mitch Marner’s contract.
Yes, but losing a vital player like Thomas could harm the team’s development and cohesion even while signing Marner could give them a high-profile boost. Opponents contend that keeping homegrown talent has longer-term benefits than the short-term gains from adding Marner.
As the NHL season draws near, trade speculations about State of Play are still circulating.
The management of the Blues is more interested in a methodical rebuild than in making snap decisions.
Next Steps
The Blues will probably look at deals, but they’ll probably go for players from non-playoff clubs over high-risk, high-reward transactions. Teams will review their standings as the season goes on, which will have an impact on trade dynamics.
Final Verdict Trading Traded Robert Thomas for Mitch Marner would jeopardize the Blues’ chances of assembling a long-term contender. The development of youthful talent and strategic acquisitions that support their long-term goals should continue to be the major priorities.
Maple Leafs are trading $65 million to the Blues in a trade pitch.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been linked to the St. Louis Blues in a trade offer including Mitch Marner, who has been the focus of trade speculation throughout the offseason.
A user on the website PuckPedia suggested a transaction in which the Maple Leafs would send Mitch Marner to the Blues. PuckGM is a new tool that allows users to build their own trades.
The Maple Leafs receive:
Blues get Robert Thomas, a second-round pick in 2027.
Mitch Marner
Ryan Reaves
Alex Steeves
The proposed trade would be a blockbuster since it would allow Toronto to finally trade Marner, avoid having to pay Ryan Reaves’ contract, and acquire RFA Alex Steeves.
While the Maple Leafs would receive a second-round pick that they might employ in a trade, All-Star forward Thomas makes up the majority of the return. With two years left on his eight-year, $65 million contract, Thomas could take over for Marner as Toronto’s second-line center or on the right wing.
Thomas scored 26 goals and provided 60 assists for 86 points in 82 games during his previous season with the Blues.
Marner, who is about to enter the last year of a six-year, $65.41 million contract, would go to St. Louis in the meantime. Marner rose to prominence with the Blues, and a new environment could inspire him to reach new heights in his play.
Reaves, a fan favorite who can grit the lineup, would also be acquired by St. Louis in the interim. Though he is only 24 years old, Steeves has only skated in 7 NHL games and may contend for a roster place with the Blues.
Thomas and Berube Were at Odds.
Before firing him the previous season, Craig Berube, who Toronto hired as their new head coach, had a falling out with Thomas.
Berube chastised Thomas for his lack of concern for the club, claiming that their best players weren’t performing up to par.
Many of our finest players aren’t performing up to par. They must not be concerned about the team. I’m not sure. “I don’t know why,” Berube told the press.
Following Berube’s remarks, Thomas took to ESPN Radio to retaliate against his old coach.
“Obviously, hearing that is frustrating,” Thomas said to Randy & Carey. I have been a member of this team for a considerable amount of time, and his statements are completely untrue. It aggravates me to hear that because I know that everyone in that room cares.
Thomas was drafted 20th overall in the 2017 NHL draft by the Blues.
Marner Desires to Stay with the Leafs
Marner is having the opportunity to play for his hometown team because he was raised in the Greater Toronto Area.
Marner has stated that he wants to stay with the Maple Leafs, despite the fact that he is approaching the end of his contract and has been the focus of trade rumors.
Marner declared on August 14 that “I’m not going to get in that too much today.” “Let me simply say that I enjoy being here. Since Day 1, I have stated that. I’m incredibly privileged to be a Maple Leaf. Today is about the two incredible individuals who stand with me.
Marner has skated in 576 NHL games recording 194 goals and 445 assists for 639 points.