Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights?

Whether you believe it's the right decision or the wrong decision, it appears this summer the Toronto Maple Leafs and general manager, Brad Treliving will finally break up the team's Core Four. It has been 8 years with limited playoff success and the team is finally ready to change their philosophy. With every member of the core having some form of trade protection in their deal, this process becomes more difficult.

Given his current contract status, it appears that Mitch Marner is likely to be the odd man out in Toronto. Captain John Tavares has already stated he has no intention of leaving and of the two Marner is the most appealing trade piece. The talented forward continues to dazzle during the regular season, but hasn't been able to translate that success into the playoffs.

After multiple reports surfaced, it now appears that the Vegas Golden Knights have entered the conversation. Vegas has shown on multiple occasions, a willingness to get creative to get a deal done. Along the way, the team has also adopted a philosophy that they're willing to get better at all costs.

If they can make the team better, Vegas will move heaven and Earth to get a deal done as they've shown on multiple occasions.

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, Vegas has shown significant interest in the forward.

As of right now, it is unclear if Marner would be willing to waive his trade protection to go to Vegas, but for a young forward and up-and-coming market with such a nightlife would be incredibly appealing. The only question would remain, does Vegas have the pieces needed to get a deal done or would the Maple Leafs be interested in retaining salary to elicit a better return?

The conversation surrounding Marner are expected to heat up at this Summer's draft as the Maple Leafs try to position themselves in the best position to improve their team for next season.