Nick Kypreos Fuels Brad Marchand-to-Leafs Talk With Major Free Agency Hint

With the Maple Leafs looking to make some changes this summer, they've already started by bringing in former Detroit Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde to replace Lane Lambert, in the first of what should be several moves in the coming weeks.

The next moves are more than likely dealing with some expiring deals, as well as bringing in new faces. There's been a lot of talk about who is going to be added this summer, and current Panther and pending free agent Brad Marchand is at the top of that list.

For NHL analyst Nick Kypreos, he thinks that not only is a Marchand signing good for the team; but it's much more grounded a signing than Sam Bennett would.

When speaking about Sam Bennett's future, Kypreos relented that Bennett's value has shot up due to his recent play, and the fact that Marchand won't be able to be afforded and given a raise himself.

Would Marchand, someone do notoriously despised in Toronto want to come anyways?

Yes, it would look very odd to see #63 in a blue and white jersey, but not only is it a distinct possibility, but very realistic all things considered.

Growing up a fan of the team has led a few players like John Tavares, Steven Lorentz and Chris Tanev to all wear the Maple Leaf, and Marchand can join their ranks.

He was oddly complimentary of the team during the second round, put their media on blast and basically had their back given he realizes the amount of pressure they're under.

But if anyone can shoulder that pressure, or sometimes even push it back onto the media, it's Marchand, and while Toronto has always been good at navigating the harsh media environment; Marchand can control them.

Having them back off or being told off will give them a bit more pause about what they ask next time is a huge asset is keeping confidence high.

Plus, while he is due for a raise; especially with his performance this postseason, he won't cost nearly as much as Bennett or for nearly as long.

If you sign Marchand at two-years, $14.5M, he could be a much cheaper alternative for a team looking to win now within the next few years, and it won't break the bank.

If Marchand were to slide into the top spot with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies, it will give the team a lot more offensive chances, not only due to Marchand's offensive skillset, but his on-ice antics will open up space or create more power plays.

He's also got 980 points in 1,100 career games, and with that type of experience coupled with unbelievable playoff production (17 points in 19 games even at 37, and 155 points total), that's worth a premium especially for the Maple Leafs.

So Sam Bennett might end up being the biggest fish the team can catch this offseason, but they should instead take a cheaper alternative, and bring one of the most effective players over the last decade and a half aboard.

At least he would be on our side this time.