Toronto Maple Leafs Make Their Intentions Clear with Brad Marchand Ahead of Free Agency

Brad Marchand is going to be one of the most popular players on the free agent market this summer, especially as he continues to prove his worth to the Florida Panthers.

The 37-year-old is having an incredible Stanley Cup Finals, and with his Panthers up 2-1 in the series, he is just two wins away from taking home his second Stanley Cup championship.

However, once the season is over, he will then have to think about his future and whether or not he wants to return to the Panthers or go elsewhere.

Marchand has stated that he is open to any team that wants him. According to recent reports, he wants a three to four-year deal, and his salary could reach as high as $8 million per season.

Meanwhile, there has been all sorts of speculation that the Toronto Maple Leafs would like to try and make a play for the forward. Up until yesterday, very little had been confirmed on that front.

However, James Mirtle's massive free agency explainer offered some clarity on the situation. In his piece, he claims that the Leafs going after Marchand "certainly looks like a real option."

Marchand has been a Leafs killer in the postseason for years. As the saying goes, if you can't beat them, join them. Or in this case, if you can't beat him, recruit him.

There is still a lot that can change between now and July 1st. A lot will hinge on whether or not the Florida Panthers can close out their series against the Oilers.

If they can't, then perhaps Marchand sees the writing on the wall and opts to move on to his final destination before retirement.

That place could very well be Toronto, and there are a lot of Leafs fans who would breathe a sigh of relief if it were.