Rumor: Does Marleau’s addition make JVR expendable?

With Marleau in the fold, could the Leafs move JVR for a bounty in return?

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
Rumor: Does Marleau’s addition make JVR expendable?
Keystone Press

On a Toronto Maple Leafs team flush with offensive talent, 28-year-old James van Riemsdyk may have had the best under the radar season of anyone on the team. The big winger was second in team scoring with 29 goals and 62 points in 82 games, yet didn’t receive near the accolades or praise as teammates Auston Matthews, Nazem Kadri, Mitch Marner or William Nylander. Heading into a pivotal season for both himself and the Leafs, JVR looks poised to do even bigger things. But first, he’ll have to address the rumors.

With his six-year, $25.5 million contract expiring next offseason, this could be the final season in Toronto for van Riemsdyk. He’ll likely command a salary north of $6 million annually on a long-term deal and with extensions forthcoming for Matthews, Marner and Nylander, the Leafs need to be wary of handing out big ticket contracts. Which leads us to the case of 38-year-old Patrick Marleau

The former Sharks captain signed a three-year deal with the Leafs in July worth $6.25 million, which is a pretty penny for any player, but certainly one who is deep into his 30s. Does Marleau’s addition signal an exit for JVR? With Marleau eating up what would effectively be JVR’s cap space, will the Leafs look to move JVR at the trade deadline? Surely he’d fetch a decent return given his age, production and pedigree.

So, if the Leafs do decide to go down this avenue, what’s a fair asking price? A first round pick? A pick AND prospects? Maybe a rental player or a top four defenseman? Stay tuned, it should be an interesting season in Toronto.

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