The Leafs just completed what I would consider a solid trade deadline, notably improving their roster. Are they a perfect team? Of course not, but they are better today than they were on Thursday and have a real chance to embark on a deep playoff run.
And yet, all of it has been overshadowed by a bombshell report from Elliotte Friedman regarding their still-unsigned leading point-getter, Mitch Marner.
According to multiple sources, Carolina had another target.
The Hurricanes initially asked for Mitch Marner in return for Rantanen. Because it was for Rantanen, the Maple Leafs had to consider it.