REPORT:Insider Says It’s ‘More Likely’ Maple Leafs’ $65 Million Forward Walks Than Re-Signs
NHL insider Chris Johnston believes it is more likely that Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner will walk in free agency than sign an extension.
Marner is entering the final year of his six-year, $65.4 million deal and has been the subject of trade rumors. However, no trade has occurred, making it increasingly likely that Marner will start the season with the Maple Leafs.
Johnston believes Marner is more likely to hit the open market and leave in free agency than to sign an extension in Toronto.
“It’s slightly more likely he walks than signs an extension, but not by much. If we were setting the betting lines now, the favorite would be him walking as a free agent. Re-signing would be the next likely outcome, followed by a trade,” Johnston said on the SDPN podcast on July 8.
When asked if that decision would be up to Marner, Johnston believes both sides might agree that parting ways is mutually beneficial.
“I’m not sure they are going to give him the option to stay either. It’s a two-way street,” Johnston added.
If Marner leaves in free agency without the Maple Leafs getting anything in return, it would be a significant mistake by the front office. Marner is one of the top players in the NHL, and losing him for nothing would be surprising. Toronto could consider trading him to recoup some assets this offseason.
