The Toronto Maple Leafs face significant uncertainty as they approach another offseason, following their recent loss in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Florida Panthers. Mitch Marner free agency and Maple Leafs future discussions are intensifying, with questions emerging about whether Toronto is prepared to let go of one of its key players.
TSN insider Darren Dreger has suggested that Marner’s time with the Maple Leafs may be nearing an end. Speaking on Leafs Morning Take, Dreger indicated that both Marner and the team seem to be preparing for a separation after years without postseason breakthroughs.
It feels to me he has (played his last game in Toronto), for a lot of different reasons,
Dreger said. I think we’ve all embraced the reality that change is needed. —Darren Dreger, TSN Insider
And when a player has earned his right to unrestricted free agency, why wouldn’t you look at what your possibilities are? As hard as Marner and company have tried to get over the hump in Toronto, it may never happen.
—Darren Dreger, TSN Insider
Mitch Marner, who is 28 years old, is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 after completing his six-year contract worth $65.41 million. Unless an extension is agreed upon between the end of the Stanley Cup Final and that date, Marner will be free to explore other options.
This past season, Marner tallied an impressive 102 points across 81 games and matched that success in the playoffs with 13 points in 13 games. However, his efforts, like the team’s, fell short of pushing the Maple Leafs beyond the second playoff round, continuing a frustrating trend for the organization and fans alike.
Dreger also pointed out strong league-wide interest in Marner regardless of the potential price tag. Many insiders agree that the winger will attract numerous suitors and could become one of the highest-paid players in the NHL.
What we know is that the interest in Marner, in (Florida Panthers forward) Sam Bennett, in (John) Tavares if he gets there, is going to be vast,
Dreger said.
It’s going to be league wide, regardless of what the dollar amount is.
—Darren Dreger, TSN Insider
As the Maple Leafs evaluate their roster moving forward, including the futures of veterans and star players like Auston Matthews, the decisions made this offseason could signal a new direction for the franchise. Marner’s free agency represents a pivotal moment that may reshape Toronto’s lineup and strategies for upcoming seasons.