Marner Most Likely Headed To Free Agency July 1 Without Extension, Trade

The most likely outcome for Mitch Marner this offseason is him becoming a UFA on July 1. This doesn't mean he still can't re-sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he has had lots of time to do so and the fans weren't very supportive of him in the playoffs, especially near the end of the second round series when the boos got louder when he touched the puck in Toronto.

That being said, a sign-and-trade wasn't completely off the table to get an eighth year on a deal, but according to Darren Dreger, Marner's camp isn't motivated to go that route to get the extra year on his next contract and is happy to go to July 1. This opens up the possibility for more teams to stay in the race for Marner as no assets will have to be given up. Some could look at this as unselfish so the team he goes to doesn't lose anything to acquire him, but could also just be to experience being a free agent and making a clear choice with all of his options on the table.

It is unfortunate for the Maple Leafs that Marner doesn't show up in big games and that they weren't able to pull off a rumoured trade for Mikko Rantanen, which further led to Marner being turned on in the end. The lights are bright in Toronto and it isn't for everyone, even someone born in Ontario. While Marner is a great regular season player, the goal is to win the Stanley Cup. Some players are built for the harder and more intense play. Marner hasn't shown he is capable of that yet.

It could be for the best that the Maple Leafs move on from this chapter, but would definitely be in better shape if they were to be able to make a sign-and-trade. Having a full no-move clause grants him the right to choose how things play out. It will be an exciting free agency if he makes it there as all the talk will be on where the top free agent signs for seven years at a very high AAV.