The possibility of Connor McDavid joining the Toronto Maple Leafs has long been a topic of discussion among hockey fans and analysts. Fueling this speculation are the Edmonton Oilers' continued playoff failures, including their recent Stanley Cup Final loss, and McDavid's entering the final year of his contract. While still a long shot, let's consider what a potential McDavid-to-Toronto trade might look like.
The Motivation
For McDavid, the motivation to move could stem from a desire to win a Stanley Cup. Despite his individual brilliance, the Oilers have consistently fallen short. The pressure to carry the team and city weighs heavily, and the prospect of joining a potentially stronger contender like the Maple Leafs could be enticing. Recent comments about needing to do what's best for him and his family have further ignited speculation.
From Toronto's perspective, acquiring McDavid would be a franchise-altering move. Pairing him with Auston Matthews would create an offensive powerhouse unmatched in the NHL, instantly making them a Stanley Cup favorite. Moreover, bringing a Toronto-born superstar "home" would be a major public relations victory.
The Challenges
Acquiring McDavid would be incredibly difficult and costly. The Oilers would demand a massive return, potentially including top young players, high draft picks, and established NHL talent. Additionally, the Maple Leafs would need to navigate salary cap constraints to fit McDavid's expected contract, which could exceed $16 million per year.
McDavid has one year remaining on his eight-year, $100 million contract, and is eligible to sign an extension this summer. There is a possibility McDavid will wait a year and test free agency in 2026.
Potential Trade Packages
Hypothetical trade packages could center around young talent like Easton Cowan, widely regarded as the Leafs' top prospect. Cowan's offensive abilities and potential top-six upside would be attractive to the Oilers. Other assets potentially included in a trade could be Fraser Minten, a defensively responsible center, and future first-round draft picks. To make the salaries work, established players like William Nylander or even Morgan Rielly might need to be included, which would be a tough pill for Leafs fans to swallow. The Leafs are without a 2025 first-round pick.
One possible scenario involves a sign-and-trade, where McDavid agrees to a new contract with the Oilers, who then immediately trade him to Toronto. This would allow Edmonton to maximize their return and ensure they don't lose McDavid for nothing in free agency.
Other Considerations
Even if a trade is agreed upon, McDavid would need to waive his no-movement clause, giving him the final say in where he goes. His desire to play in Toronto would be a crucial factor.
The Maple Leafs' willingness to part with core players like Mitch Marner, who is nearing free agency, could also influence their ability to acquire McDavid. If Marner leaves, Toronto might be more inclined to pursue a blockbuster trade.
Ultimately, a McDavid-to-Toronto trade is a complex and highly speculative scenario. While the potential reward is immense, the challenges and costs are equally significant. It would require a confluence of factors, including McDavid's desire to leave Edmonton, the Oilers' willingness to trade him, and the Maple Leafs' ability to assemble a compelling trade package.
