The Toronto Maple Leafs could look much different next season if they are unable to reach a deal with Mitch Marner or John Tavares. It might not be a bad thing to switch up their core after years of failed playoff appearances, but Brad Treliving could have a plan up his sleeve to bring some form of familiarity to the fanbase.
Tyler Bertuzzi has been a name linked to the Maple Leafs since the beginning of their offseason, and it wouldn't be shocking if the Chicago Blackhawks tried to get out from underneath his deal. The Blackhawks outbid the Maple Leafs last offseason in hopes that Bertuzzi would find a home in their top-six, but he ended up recording 46 points in 82 games, just a three-point jump from his down year with the Maple Leafs in 2023-24.
The Maple Leafs couldn't find a way to pay Bertuzzi the salary he was looking for last offseason. They had to be careful, considering their salary cap situation, and spending $5.5 million annually for a 43-point pace wasn't in their plans. If Chicago could retain some of Bertuzzi's salary in a potential trade, it might increase the chances of the Leafs accepting it.
Toronto could now realize that Bertuzzi is the type of player they need in their lineup after getting bullied by the Florida Panthers in the second round. The Maple Leafs will also have to move out some salary in the potential deal, and they could sweeten the pot by sending David Kampf the other way.
Kampf is a former Blackhawk who had a breakout season in his first year with the Maple Leafs. It hasn't gone as smoothly for him since the Leafs only dressed him for one game in the playoffs after injury issues to end the regular season. A fresh start in his old home could be what he needs. The Leafs adding a pick or two to that return could be all they need to fix their mistake and bring Bertuzzi home.