Marner Traded to Vegas Golden Knights as One-for-One Deal for Nicolas Roy
In a stunning move that reshapes the landscape of both franchises, the Toronto Maple Leafs have traded star forward Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights in a one-for-one deal for center Nicolas Roy.
The transaction, completed as part of a sign-and-trade agreement, clears significant cap space for Toronto while giving Vegas another high-powered offensive weapon.
Shortly after the deal, Marner signed an eight-year contract with the Golden Knights carrying a cap hit of \$12 million per season, solidifying his long-term future in Las Vegas.
The move ends weeks of speculation surrounding Marner’s future in Toronto. With one year remaining on his previous deal and a hefty cap hit of \$10.9 million, the Leafs had reportedly been exploring trade options as part of a broader strategy to retool under new management. The decision to move Marner signals a commitment to changing the core of a team that has repeatedly fallen short in the playoffs.
For Vegas, the deal is another bold swing from a front office known for aggressive, win-now strategies. The 27-year-old Marner brings elite playmaking ability, exceptional hockey IQ, and top-tier production.
Last season, he posted 85 points (25 goals, 60 assists) in 76 games, continuing his reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic wingers.
Marner’s signing at \$12 million per year puts him among the highest-paid players in the NHL, but Vegas has shown a consistent willingness to pay top dollar for elite talent. His arrival adds another dimension to a Golden Knights offense that already features Jack Eichel, Mark Stone, and Jonathan Marchessault—though the latter remains an unsigned free agent as of this writing.
On the other side of the trade, Toronto acquires 27-year-old Nicolas Roy, a defensively responsible center with underrated offensive upside. Roy recorded 41 points (14 goals, 27 assists) in 82 games last season and played a key role in Vegas’s 2023 Stanley Cup run. His two-way play, versatility, and \$3 million cap hit provide the Leafs with a cost-effective middle-six option as they attempt to rebalance their roster.
While some Leafs fans may see the return as underwhelming given Marner’s elite pedigree, the deal reflects the financial realities of the flat-cap era. Toronto gains over \$9 million in cap flexibility and can now target additional reinforcements via free agency or future trades.
Both teams walk away addressing needs: Vegas adds a superstar forward to extend its contention window, and Toronto sheds salary while gaining depth and flexibility.
Marner’s time in Toronto ends after eight seasons, 639 games, and 639 points—an ironic statistical sendoff. Now, he embarks on a new chapter in the desert, while the Leafs look to reshape their identity once more.