Brad Marchand's Stanley Cup Victory Increases His Salary Demands to the Toronto Maple Leafs

If it weren't for Sam Bennett and his efforts during these playoffs, Brad Marchand would probably have the Conn Smythe right now, as he was sensational in the playoffs.

In fact, the former Boston Bruins captain was able to finish second in Conn Smythe voting, which is pretty solid, all things considered.

Now, Marchand is set to become a free agent on July 1st, and he must decide who he would like to play with going forward. Of course, the Panthers remain an option.

In fact, Panthers GM Bill Zito has already confirmed that he would love to get the band back together and bring back guys like Marchand, Bennett, and Aaron Ekblad.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the teams that are paying attention to this situation, as they have frequently expressed interest in the forward.

Unfortunately, it is going to cost them dearly. According to Darren Dreger of TSN, Marchand is now looking at upwards of $8.5 million per season.

That salary is a hard pill to swallow, but if the Leafs lose Mitch Marner and they become desperate to replace him, then they may have no choice.

Overall, the Leafs are a team that is in no position to get cheap with potential free agents. They are going to have to give it their all when recruiting, and that means giving guys huge salaries.

With that kind of media attention, you get hit with a tax of sorts. Guys cost more than they would elsewhere, and Marchand is no exception.

Only time will tell whether or not the Panthers are able to keep Marchand with the team, or will have to move on, despite all of their success these past few months.