JUST IN:Toronto Maple Leafs Face Critical Decision on Mitch Marner.With Marner entering the f…
One of the biggest NHL storylines this offseason is the Toronto Maple Leafs’ decision regarding superstar forward Mitch Marner. With Marner entering the final year of his contract and a history of playoff disappointments, popular opinion suggests the Leafs should explore trading him.
The Maple Leafs promised bold moves this offseason, but trading one of the “Core Four” would be the boldest of all. Despite the start of free agency, the Leafs have been relatively quiet.
They’ve signed a few veteran defensemen, re-signed a key forward on a favorable contract, and committed to a new goalie tandem. However, Marner, Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares remain on the roster.
Matthews and Nylander are firmly staying in Toronto. While there are questions about Tavares, he’s expected to stay for the final year of his contract. That leaves Marner, who is increasingly likely to remain with the team as well.
NHL insider Chris Johnston suggested that Marner is more likely to play out his contract in Toronto and become a free agent in 2025. On the Steve Dangle Podcast, Johnston said, “It’s probably slightly more likely he walks than signs an extension. If we were setting the betting lines now, the favorite would be he walks as a free agent. Then I would say re-sign is the next favorite… then trade.”
In essence, the Maple Leafs seem willing to risk losing Marner for nothing rather than making a trade that could strengthen their roster or prospect pool.
The boldest move for the Maple Leafs this offseason would have been trading Marner. Despite declaring that everything was on the table, it appears no significant or bold moves are forthcoming.
