Maple Leafs GM Hints at Marner’s Pending Free Agency: What This Means for Fans and the Team

TORONTO — Mitch Marner is likely to enter free agency on July 1, says Toronto Maple Leafs’ general manager Brad Treliving. “We’ve communicated,” he noted. “Unless something changes significantly, I expect he’ll hit the market.”

Marner, a forward from Markham, Ontario, was picked 4th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft. Over nine seasons with the Maple Leafs, he has tallied 741 points (221 goals and 520 assists) in 657 games. Despite his impressive stats, the team has struggled, winning only two playoff series since then. Toronto hasn’t reached the conference finals since 2002 and hasn’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967.

Marner is on a six-year, $65.358 million contract that averages $10.9 million per season. This past year, he led the Leafs with 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists) and shined as a two-way player, ranking seventh for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the top defensive forward. At just 28, he’s in his prime, and experts predict he could command offers upwards of $12 million per year if he becomes a free agent.

For the Maple Leafs to get anything in return before free agency, it would likely involve a sign-and-trade deal. They can offer him an eight-year contract before July 1; afterward, all teams, including Toronto, can only propose a maximum of seven years.

Interestingly, Treliving’s recent comments suggested a possible parting. When asked about free agency priorities, he initially mentioned, “with Mitch going…” but quickly corrected himself, saying, “if Mitch is going.” He acknowledged the challenges of losing a player of Marner’s caliber, emphasizing that finding a replacement isn’t easy. “There’s not a Mitch Marner tree,” he said.

Another significant decision for the Maple Leafs involves center John Tavares, who can also become a free agent. Tavares, 34, has expressed a desire to stay with Toronto. He had a solid season, recording 74 points (38 goals and 36 assists) in 75 games. “We’ve had lots of communication,” Treliving said. “John wants to stay, and we want to keep John.” The primary issues seem to be term and money, which are common contract hurdles.

The team is also focused on negotiating with restricted free agent Matthew Knies, who had a breakout season, achieving 58 points (29 goals and 29 assists). Treliving acknowledged that other teams might pursue Knies with an offer sheet but stressed the importance of proper business practices. “We’re hopeful for a positive outcome,” he said.

The pressure is mounting as July 1 approaches, and the decisions the Maple Leafs make will greatly shape their future.

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