The future of Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Mitch Marner remains one of the most compelling storylines heading into the NHL offseason. With his contract status a major point of discussion and the sting of another playoff disappointment fresh in the minds of Toronto faithful, speculation about his potential departure has reached a fever pitch. Naturally, a player of Marner’s caliber—a dynamic, point-producing winger—would attract widespread interest should he hit the open market, and rebuilding franchises like the Chicago Blackhawks are undoubtedly monitoring the situation closely, hoping for a chance to land a transformative talent.

However, recent insights from NHL insider Pierre LeBrun have added a significant layer to the conversation, suggesting Marner’s immediate preferences might lie with teams already in championship contention. LeBrun’s report indicates that if Marner were to make a choice today, his focus would be on specific, established powerhouses, potentially sidelining teams still in the foundational stages of a rebuild. This revelation not only impacts the Maple Leafs’ delicate negotiations but also reshapes the landscape for aspiring suitors, painting a clearer picture of the star winger’s priorities as the free agency period approaches and GM Brad Treliving navigates a complex situation.

Toronto Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner in a press conference.

Photo credit: Screenshot

In a recent appearance on TSN 1050, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun revealed two teams that the Chicago Blackhawks’ offseason target Mitch Marner would be willing to sign with right now.

Mitch Marner will be the biggest name available on the free agent market if the Toronto Maple Leafs don’t sign him to a contract extension before July 1st. After all that happened to him in Toronto after he got eliminated, rumors of his departure gained traction.

A rebuilding team like the Chicago Blackhawks is sure to be interested in Marner if he reaches the market.

However, is the player willing to sacrifice a few more years of his career to a rebuilding team after a tough stint with the Maple Leafs?

According to Pierre LeBrun, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

The insider revealed that Marner would be interested in joining the Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers, two teams with high chances of winning the Stanley Cup every year.

He also stated that the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings joined the Hawks on the list of interested teams:

Marner’s situation with the Leafs reached a new level of complexity with Brad Treliving’s update during today’s press conference.

Indeed, the GM stated that he had a meeting with Marner, and that he will be in touch with his agent, but added that the player has a say in the process, possibly suggesting they’re far from reaching a deal:

“I think Mitch is a tremendous player I think he’s a star. I had a meeting with all the players individually, Mitch and I had a discussion. It’s emotional right now I’m gonna be in touch with Mitch’s representatives and determine what’s best. He’s got a say in the process we’ll see.”

Marner is among the best players in the NHL, and signing him won’t be cheap. With Matthew Knies and John Tavares looking for new contracts in Toronto as well, Treliving is in a tough spot. But his recent declaration hints at his biggest concern: Marner could walk away from the team simply because he doesn’t want to be a Leaf anymore.