Original Six Franchise to Aggressively Pursue Mitch Marner in Free Agency
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner is currently negotiating his next contract with the team and it seems like one Original Six franchise is watching intently.
Mitch Marner is up for a new deal and there are rumors that the superstar forward could make more than Auston Matthews, who has an AAV of $13.5 million on his current contract.
The Maple Leafs are reluctant to pay Marner more than their captain, however, with the salary cap going up, they may have no choice.
Is Mitch Marner staying with the Toronto Maple Leafs
If the Leafs and their forward can't come to terms on a deal by July 1st, then there are a few teams looking to pounce.
It was reported that the Utah Hockey Club was ready to do something if Marner somehow became available.
According to Elliotte Friedman, the Chicago Blackhawks are willing to do the same.
They made an attempt last year with Jake Guentzel but came up short and were disappointed. It's believed they'll take another big swing if they become available.
The Blackhawks are also taking a look at Mikko Rantanen who may not be willing to re-sign with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Overall, Marner has been fantastic this year with 71 points in 53 games. This has upped his value and is making things hard for the Leafs.
Having said that, one has to wonder what is going to happen next for the forward. Will the Leafs be able to pay him $15 million per year.
As for teams like the Blackhawks, they are in the midst of a rebuild and appear to be very desperate.
Meanwhile, the Utah Hockey Club is building a fanbase in a city that isn't a sure thing. Simply put, they need someone to build excitement and Marner does just that.
| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 7 | 255 ANSWERS Original Six Franchise to Aggressively Pursue Mitch Marner in Free Agency Do you believe Mitch Marner will stay with the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
| YES | 216 | 84.7 % |
| NO | 39 | 15.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
