How a trade with Penguins could solve Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner problem

The Toronto Maple Leafs still do not have a proven replacement for Mitch Marner, despite the overpopulation they have on attack, and a potential solution is in the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Penguins have on their roster one of the best wingers in the NHL, and considering he has three years left on his contract, with an average salary of $5.13 million, he could be a good market option for a team like the Leafs. That player is Bryan Rust.

Rust, 33, would represent an ideal and immediate replacement for Marner in Toronto's top six, not only for his experience but also for his offensive versatility, something that coach Craig Berube likes.

As for numbers, the native of Pontiac, Michigan, is coming off two good seasons. He tallied 56 points in 62 games during the 2023-24 campaign, while last season he tallied 65 points in 71 games played. Being an ally of Auston Matthews in Toronto could be what he needs to reach even higher numbers.

Bryan Rust would bring the offensive leadership the Maple Leafs need

One of the Maple Leafs' main needs is leadership on the attack to be able to live up to the demands in the playoffs. Rust would immediately arrive to meet this demand. Also, the right winger's contract does not include a no-movement clause, which could benefit the Leafs in potential negotiations with Pittsburgh.

This trade pitch was originally proposed by Heavy.com's Spencer Lazary, and he included Nick Robertson, whom the Leafs are willing to let go, Calle Jarnkrok, Henry Thrun and a 2027 second-round pick in exchange for Rust.

Another positive point for the Leafs is that although they would let three players go, they would maintain a young base — for example, Easton Cowan and Ben Danford — and add a veteran who would generate immediate impact.