As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to search for the answer in regards to replacing the offensive production of Mitch Marner, a new name has emerged as a clear target for Toronto to consider via Michael DeRosa of Hockey News.
Rickard Rakell is the player in question. The 32 year forward tallied 35 goals and assists apiece last season for a total of 70 points. He would be a nice option to play in a top 6 role on this Leafs squad. At the moment it is unclear who the linemates are going to be for the Leafs top forward Auston Matthews, having lost his main running mate.
William Nylander could be an option, although the Leafs would ideally like to spread out their talent and have Willy Styles play with John Tavares. Matthew Knies is another solid piece, having been recently extended to a long term deal. He could be primed to take another step forward this season. After that, the answer becomes less clear with players such as Max Domi, Matias Macceli and Bobby McMann being the next best tools available.
Adding Rickard Rakell to the fold would give the Leafs a clear linemate to consistently play with Auston Matthews. It is known the Penguins are shopping him as they embrace their needed retool. The asking price will be steep for Toronto and at the moment they do not have the cap room to get a move done. They will need to make further moves to clear cap space before they enter the Rakell bidding war.
It will be fascinating to see what happens with Rickard Rakell as the Leafs will be far from the only team interested in his services as the Pittsburgh Penguins open up the sellers market.
