The future of Toronto Maple Leafs’ star forward Mitch Marner has been one of the most intensely discussed topics of the NHL offseason. Marner, who has been at the center of numerous trade rumors since the season ended, has only one year remaining on his contract before he becomes a free agent next offseason.
While trading Marner to avoid losing him for nothing in a year might seem beneficial for the Maple Leafs, The Athletic’s Chris Johnston recently suggested on the “SDPN podcast” that this is actually the least likely outcome. Johnston stated, “It’s probably slightly more likely he walks than signs an extension but not significantly so. If we were setting the betting lines now, the favorite would be (he) walks as a free agent. Then I would say re-sign the next favorite, and then trade three.”
Despite the speculation, the Maple Leafs still have the option to re-sign the 27-year-old forward, who is expected to receive a raise from his current $10.9 million salary. Toronto will have some financial flexibility in 2025 when John Tavares’ $11 million cap hit and defenseman Jake McCabe’s $2 million salary come off their books. Additionally, the team could consider trading other players, such as David Kampf or Calle Jarnkrok, to create the necessary cap space for a Marner extension.
Since debuting in 2016, Marner has consistently performed at a high level, scoring 60 or more points in each of his eight seasons. He has reached the 30-goal mark twice and has achieved 90 points three times, including in two of the last three seasons. This past season, Marner ranked third on the Maple Leafs in points (85) and fourth in goals (26), and he has led the team in scoring in three of the last five seasons.
Marner’s future remains uncertain, but his track record and consistent performance make him a crucial asset for the Maple Leafs as they navigate their options moving forward.