Chicago Blackhawks Reportedly Preparing to Pursue Two Toronto Maple Leafs Stars
The Chicago Blackhawks are a team in desperate need of improvement and according to reports, they may be looking to target the Toronto Maple Leafs for talent.
On Friday night, the Blackhawks found themselves in the midst of one of the biggest trades in the history of the NHL as Mikko Rantanen went to the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Hawks ended up sending Taylor Hall to the Canes in this deal while helping the team out by retaining some of Rantanen's salary.
Chicago Blackhawks prepare for Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner
Some fans are livid with the Blackhawks for making such a seemingly ill-advised move.
However, according to reporters Scott Powers and Mark Lazerus, the Blackhawks are reportedly going to pursue a couple of Maple Leafs free agents aggressively.
With most of the replacements for any departing players coming from within, there'll be plenty of cap space to make a serious run at Rantanen, Marner or anyone else."
Those players are none other than Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner. Marner is a UFA while Knies is an RFA who would have to be hit with an offer sheet.
With the Leafs trying to fit both players on the roster for next season, there is a chance that the Hawks could at least land one of these guys.
It is a nightmare scenario for the Leafs and their fans, but with Marner struggling to sign a new deal, it could very well be a reality.
If you love the Leafs, you are going to need to prepare for anything here, especially as the salary cap is set to go up significantly.
Hopefully, the Maple Leafs can retain Knies and Marner. If not, next season could be difficult.
