The Toronto Maple Leafs have traded forward Patrick Marleau to the Washington Capitals for a 2nd round pick and forward Mikko Salomaki. 

"We stepped back and felt we were going to be in a real battle for the wild card spots this season, so we have decided it makes sense to regroup now rather than later and see what happens," said GM Garrett Hansford.  "We made the move to add draft picks a year ago and this continues that plan."

Marleau was off to a good start with Toronto, scoring 10 goals and 6 assists in the teams first 14 games. 

"Patrick was a pro for us, did everything we asked of him," said Hansford.  "This deal is all about where we are headed this season and likely next.   You cannot win in this league without elite level talent, and the only way to really get that these days is to draft and develop it.  That's where our focus is now."

Toronto is reportedly now shopping several other veteran players including Marc-Edouard Vlasic, Joe Thornton, Derik Brassard, Thomas Vanek, and Cory Schneider.