Maple Leafs are a potential landing location for Devils defenceman John Marino

The sought-after pending UFA. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs are eyeing an opportunity to strengthen their defensive line by potentially acquiring John Marino.

The New Jersey Devils are reportedly the frontrunners in the pursuit of defenseman Brett Pesce. According to Dan Powers, a well-known podcast host, the Devils are not only eager to add Pesce to their roster but are also considering reshuffling their current lineup to accommodate him.

This strategic move involves exploring the trade market for John Marino, which would not only free up the necessary cap space but also clear a spot on the right side of their defense.

John Marino, who currently has three years remaining on a deal with an annual cap hit of $4.4 million, might soon find himself wearing a Maple Leafs jersey if the Devils' plans go through.

Marino's potential departure from New Jersey could be a calculated move to leverage his value on the trade market and make room for Pesce. Despite not being the marquee defenseman that many Leafs fans yearn for, Marino offers cap certainty and a more budget-friendly option compared to other right-shot free agents.

During his tenure with the Devils, Marino, acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2022 off-season, demonstrated solid performance. With 4 goals and 25 points across 75 games last season, his contribution is tangible but not flashy.

However, for the Maple Leafs, acquiring Marino could be a strategic addition, providing stability and cost efficiency on the right side of their blueline.

With prominent players like Dougie Hamilton and Simon Nemec already holding positions on the right, the Devils' intent to move Marino seems logical and almost inevitable. Marino's modified no-trade clause does give him some control over his potential destinations, which adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations. Yet, if the Devils are committed to making space for Pesce, they might find a way to make the trade appealing for all parties involved.

Kevin Papetti of The Athletic has pointed out that this potential arrangement could be beneficial for both teams. His insights underline the strategic fit Marino could provide for the Leafs, while allowing the Devils to realign their financial and player assets more effectively.

As these trade discussions unfold, both the Devils and the Maple Leafs are carefully maneuvering to enhance their rosters, ensuring that every move aligns with their strategic goals for the upcoming season.