Marl-NO What if Marleau was not signed

How would the Leafs pay Matthews and Marner in the future? Leafs should have traded JVR for a 1st and a 3rd, Bozak for a 2nd and Komarov for a 4th last year. Hopefully the Leafs will learn from their mistakes and trade Gardiner to gain capital before he hits free agency.

This isn't an exhaustive what-if tree of possibilities. It's the simplest possible comparison at a glance, from which you could imagine trades.

I don't hope Gardiner is traded, but I do hope management has a clear plan to stay on top of all problems in the next couple seasons.
I can't tell if they've been patient trying to get the best deals, or just procrastinating until it's too late.
We'll know what Dubas is made of before next year's draft; this will be the hardest and most consequential year of his career as GM.

My point with the Leafs is I believe that they are still a year or two away from being a contender. A true Cup contender. Trading JVR, Bozak, Komarov and now Gardiner would help expedite the process. Dermott or Rosen will take up Gardiner's minutes quickly. Cheers!

JVR, Bozak and Komarov where all let go in free agency. They were not traded. I am not sure I understand what you are trying to say here.

My point is the Leafs should have traded them as they should trade Gardiner now.