Sharks Rumors: Maple Leafs & Oilers Interested In 2 Players

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers are both reportedly showing interest in bolstering their teams with the addition of San Jose Sharks players Mario Ferraro and Luke Kunin, according to David Pagnotta.

The Maple Leafs, in particular, are considering their options carefully, given their limited trade chips, as they lack a second-round pick until 2027 and are hesitant to move their first-round pick.

Their strategy appears to involve offering a volume of draft picks, focusing more on depth trades due to their constrained bargaining power.

Luke Kunin's goal to make it 3-1 #SJSharks pic.twitter.com/NVk1gacJxa
— JD Young (@MyFryHole) February 16, 2024

The 26-year-old Kunin has scored eight goals, 10 total points, and 107 hits across 50 games played this season.

On the other hand, the Edmonton Oilers are contemplating an upgrade to their defensive lineup, with particular interest in Mario Ferraro.

Ferraro's role on a struggling Sharks team makes him a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen their defense.

The Oilers have shown significant improvement in their defensive gameplay as the season progressed, and adding Ferraro could provide them with the depth and versatility needed for a strong postseason performance.

“I’d also throw the Edmonton Oilers in the mix for both players [Mario Ferraro & Luke Kunin], as well. In either Toronto or Edmonton’s case, a contract or two would have to go back San Jose’s way to make the finances work.” https://t.co/KrMcKpdBNo
— Oilers Central (@oilers_central) February 20, 2024

The 25-year-old Ferraro has just one goal, 14 total points, a -22 plus/minus rating, and 148 blocked shots over 51 games played this season.

The Oilers would need to manage their salary cap to accommodate Ferraro's $3.25 million contract, potentially involving players like Cody Ceci, Warren Foegele, or Brett Kulak in a trade to make the financials work.

Both teams' interest in Ferraro and Kunin underscores their intent to enhance their rosters as they prepare for the postseason, with each team considering the strategic fit and financial implications of such acquisitions.

Photo Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports