The Maple Leafs secret is out, and the Marchenko sweepstakes just got real

Well, if Toronto wanted to keep their Kirill Marchenko desires quiet, Elliotte Friedman just let the cat out of the bag explaining the Maple Leafs have real interest.

There were reports over the summer that Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kirill Marchenko could be traded given his desire for a huge contract, as well as Columbus' disinterest in giving him that massive pay raise.

While there is nothing concrete yet, and as the days pass - time is of the essence. That means the trade rumors are heating up, and it seems like the Maple Leafs are part of the discussion, even if they didn't want that information publicly known.

Toronto Maple Leafs are genuinely interested in adding Kirill Marchenko

According to Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts, the Marchenko sweepstakes are heating up, with the Maple Leafs among several teams who have either expressed interest or submitted an offer to the Blue Jackets:

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Marchenko would certainly add a level of scoring that could push the Maple Leafs over the top. He's had 102 goals over 209 games, while adding solid defensive and possession numbers, and is just hitting the prime of his career.

He'd be a perfect player alongside Auston Matthews, and would provide the puck-heavy possession needed to give Matthews chances. It would also allow the team to move Matthew Knies down the lineup where he is better suited off against weaker matchups as he continues to grow.

Marchenko issuing to cost the Maple Leafs a fortune

However, we touched previously on the fact that Marchenko coming in would cost not only a ton when it comes to a contract extension but flat out asset-wise as well.

There's a very good chance that it would cost the Maple Leafs at least Matthew Knies to start any discussions, meanwhile they are likely going to have to dangle their 2028 first-round pick, and perhaps even Easton Cowan or Ben Danford.

All of that for a player who still needs a $12 million or more AAVon their next deal, meanwhile you already have Knies locked up long-term for a fraction of the price Marchenko would sign for.

The rising cap makes his contract look even more financially savvy, and despite having more room for Marchenko's deal down the line - it's getting it initially that is too pricey.

Marchenko has proven to be a reliable and consistent NHL scorer and there's no doubt that he would add some much-needed help to the Maple Leafs lineup. But at the cost of losing Matthew Knies and potentially a lot more, perhaps it's best if Toronto passes up putting all their chips behind Marchenko.

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