The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a significant challenge after trading Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights. Marner's departure leaves a void in the team's offense, playmaking, and special teams. Replacing his production won't be easy, but here are four ways the Maple Leafs can attempt to fill the gap:

1. Developing Existing Talent:

The Maple Leafs are banking on the continued growth of Matthew Knies. Knies, who is 22 years old, had a strong season with 29 goals and 29 assists. The team hopes he can elevate his game and potentially become a 40-goal scorer. General Manager Brad Treliving recognizes that replacing Marner's production won't be achieved through a single acquisition but rather through the collective effort of multiple players.

2. Exploring the Free Agent Market:

With the departure of Marner, the Maple Leafs are actively seeking to bolster their offensive lineup through free agency. One potential target is Jack Roslovic, a 28-year-old center who recently scored 22 goals for the Carolina Hurricanes. Roslovic could provide valuable offensive depth to the team. The Maple Leafs understand that they need to bring in layers of production from outside the organization to adequately replace Marner. Other free agent options could include Nikolaj Ehlers, a speedy and skilled winger.

3. Utilizing the Trade Market:

If the Maple Leafs are unable to secure their desired free agents, they may need to turn to the trade market to acquire offensive talent. One intriguing option could be Jason Robertson from the Dallas Stars. Robertson is a proven goal scorer who has already had two 40-goal seasons. The Maple Leafs could also explore other trade possibilities to reinforce their forward group. Treliving has acknowledged the limitations in the free agency market and the potential need to explore trades to find help for Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies.

4. Adjusting Team Strategy and Deployment:

Marner's absence will likely lead to a shakeup in the team's deployment strategy. The Maple Leafs may need to re-evaluate their power play setup and penalty kill units. Morgan Rielly is a candidate to take over Marner's role as the powerplay quarterback. The team may also consider deploying different players on the penalty kill and explore adding a player with a heavy shot from the point on the power play. Coach Craig Berube wants the Leafs to be a heavy, forechecking team, which may require adjustments in the team's style of play.