Rumour: Mark Giordano wants to return to Canada and Toronto is a preferred landing spot
So, I think I should preface this by stating that, as of this point, none of the more reputable sources have been reporting this, but there appears to be some chatter from around social media linking Seattle Kraken captain Mark Giordano to a pair of Canadian teams.
The Kraken are not expected to be in the playoff hunt and should be sellers at the trade deadline. If they do decide to sell, it's reasonable to think that Giordano could be moved to possibly one of Calgary or Toronto. I'm sure there are other contenders who may be interested, but these are Gio's preferences, according to the rumours.
Giordano spent 15 seasons with the Calgary Flames, captaining the team for 8 of those seasons after the departure of longtime captain Jarome Iginla. Giordano was exposed in the Seattle expansion draft, perhaps assuming that the Kraken would not want to take on his $6.75M cap hit. Obviously, the leadership qualities that Giordano brings with him were valued by Kraken GM Ron Francis, and he was selected in the exansion draft. I'm sure the Flames wouldn't mind bringing him back, especially if the Kraken are willing to retain some salary.
In Toronto, Giordano could potentially be reunited with his close friend and longtime D partner T.J. Brodie. Gio, 38, is also a Toronto native and may have a strong desire to wear a Leafs jersey before he hangs up his skates. And, let's be honest.. if he became an integral part of bringing a championship to Toronto, how cool would that be??
If he doesn't land in Toronto at the deadline, Giordano is rumored to be interested in pursuing a deal with the Leafs in the off-season as a UFA. Again, those rumours are yet to be substantiated by a reputable source, but it stands to reason that he could have an interest in playing at home before he retires.
Either way, if Gio lands in Calgary or Toronto, I'd expect the deal to be one where a third team becomes involved for salary retention purposes.
Source: TML Updates
