Toronto Maple Leafs Reportedly Rejected Mikko Rantanen Trade Offer Involving First-Line Winger
Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving is interested in trading for Mikko Rantanen but the Carolina Hurricanes are currently playing hardball.
Mikko Rantanen is currently being shopped by the Carolina Hurricanes despite only being traded to the team a few weeks ago.
The superstar winger is refusing to sign a long-term deal and the Metropolitan Division team is looking to see if they can cut their losses before losing the forward in free agency.
It has been reported that the Toronto Maple Leafs are interested, but they are also hoping to get him at a discounted price.
Toronto Maple Leafs hit with tough Mikko Rantanen offer
According to David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period, the Carolina Hurricanes had an offer on the table for the Brad Treliving and the Maple Leafs.
However, as you are going to see below, the ask is a bit steep. The Hurricanes want to also secure the services of Matthew Knies, who has been a stud on the Maple Leafs first line.
Toronto was quick to say no to this trade as they feel like it simply would not be worth it without a long-term commitment from Mikko Rantanen.
Matthew Knies is also looking for a new contract this summer, but he would cost a whole lot less than Rantanen, even if his production might be considerably lower.
Knies has 24 goals and 41 assists in 58 games this season. Meanwhile, Rantanen has 27 goals and 70 points in 61 games.
Needless to say, Rantanen is definitely the better player, but it would not be a one-for-one trade. There would most certainly have to be some draft capital involved.
At the end of the day, Brad Treliving is smart to say no to such a deal. Knies is going to be the future of this team alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.
Only time will tell whether or not the Maple Leafs can bring the price on Rantanen down as the Hurricanes continue to lose leverage.
