Golden Knights Acquire Mitch Marner from Maple Leafs in $96 Million Deal

The Golden Knights acquired Mitch Marner in a sign-and-trade deal with the Maple Leafs, signing him to an eight-year contract worth $12 million per season before sending him to Vegas. This move prevents Marner from entering free agency and positions him to likely play on the top line in Vegas.

Reports suggest that Nicolas Roy will be going to Toronto as part of the deal. Roy, a bottom-six center, had a productive season with the Golden Knights, scoring 15 goals and 31 points.

Marner, who spent nine seasons with the Maple Leafs after being drafted fourth overall in 2015, was one of the NHL's top scorers last season with 102 points. He leaves Toronto after recording 741 points in the regular season and 63 points in playoff games.

Marner's departure was expected as he planned to test free agency. Leafs general manager Brad Treliving acknowledged the challenge of replacing Marner, stating that there is no easy replacement for such a talented player.

Despite Marner's individual success, the Maple Leafs struggled in the playoffs during his tenure, only advancing past the first round twice in eight seasons.