Insider offers a startling update regarding Mitch Marner's condition
As the dust settles on the NHL's first week of free agency, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves at the center of escalating speculation surrounding star forward Mitch Marner.
With whispers of potential exits and contract extensions filling the air, the Leafs' strategy regarding their "Core 4"�including Marner�has drawn particular attention and concern.
According to Chris Johnston of TSN, Toronto is poised to maintain its foundational quartet for another run, despite the looming shadow of free agency that could see Marner depart next summer.
The decision to stick with the Core 4 follows a missed opportunity last offseason to trade either Marner or William Nylander before their no-movement clauses became active. Now, with Nylander securing an extensive new deal (8 years at $11.5M annually) and John Tavares affirming his commitment to staying put, Marner appears increasingly likely to be edged out amidst rampant trade rumors.
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The questions that haunt Leafs fans and pundits alike�Will Marner be traded? Does he even want to leave? Will he secure an extension, or will he explore free agency?�continue to dominate discussions. This chatter reached a crescendo recently on The Steve Dangle Podcast, where Johnston shared insights that tilted the scales towards Marner possibly leaving.
"It's probably more likely he walks than he signs an extension. Not significantly so, but if we were setting the betting lines now, the favourite would be walks as a free agent, then I would say re-sign is the next favourite. I'm just not sure they are going to give him the option to stay either."
This revelation isn't just a comment on Marner's likelihood to walk; it underscores a potentially larger issue within the Leafs organization�namely, their apparent reluctance to even offer Marner the chance to re-sign. If Toronto allows Marner to leave as a free agent, it could represent a significant oversight.
Over 576 regular season games with the Leafs, Marner has amassed 639 points, proving his value beyond doubt. Despite criticisms of his playoff performances, where he has sometimes been seen as less impactful, his postseason stats�50 points across 57 games�speak to his enduring utility in high-stakes moments.
As the scenario unfolds, the Leafs might face considerable backlash if they let a player of Marner's caliber walk without a fight. The coming months will be critical as training camp approaches, with the team's decisions potentially reshaping its future prospects and Marner's career trajectory.
Previously on MapleLeafsLatest
| POLL |
9 JUILLET | 134 ANSWERS Insider offers a startling update regarding Mitch Marner's condition What is going to happen to Mitch Marner in the end? |
| Traded | 25 | 18.7 % |
| Extension | 72 | 53.7 % |
| Walks in free agency | 37 | 27.6 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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