A seismic shift is unfolding in the NHL, as one of the league’s brightest stars prepares to hit the open market. Mitch Marner, a player long synonymous with the Toronto Maple Leafs, is officially set to test free agency, sending shockwaves through the hockey world. After nearly a decade of highs and lows in his hometown, Marner’s journey with the Leafs is coming to an end—a decision that has left fans and analysts reeling. The announcement, confirmed by respected insider Pierre LeBrun, marks the conclusion of an era in Toronto and the beginning of a high-stakes bidding war for one of hockey’s premier talents.

As speculation intensifies, all eyes are now on teams with both the cap space and ambition to make a splash, with the Chicago Blackhawks emerging as a potential frontrunner. The prospect of Marner joining forces with rising superstar Connor Bedard has ignited excitement and debate across the league. With Marner’s elite playmaking ability and proven track record, his next destination could dramatically alter the NHL landscape. As the countdown to free agency begins, the hockey world waits in anticipation to see where Marner’s next chapter will unfold.

Photo credit: NHL DOT COM

If the Chicago Blackhawks want a top forward in the NHL all Kyle Davidson has to do is be patient, as NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun reports that the Maple Leafs’ Mitch Marner is headed to free agency.

Mitch Marner’s career in Toronto appears to be over. According to NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun, the $10.9 million forward will test free agency in 2025.

‘A done deal’ LeBrun says.

With recent news of him turning his back on Canada after he leaves his hometown team, you can imagine he’ll end up fetching top dollar in the market.

The gravity of the news regarding Marner is sorrowful, as undoubtedly playing for your favorite team is something out ouf a dream. But for the Ontario native, it turned into a nightmare after nine-years.

There was news that the Markham, ONT-born forward shot down a trade that would’ve sent him to the Carolina Hurricanes in return for Mikko Rantanen.

With the relationship between himself, the team, and fans strained, perhaps it’s the best route for him.

Marner could end up fetching a pretty hefty contract after posting 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists) in the NHL regular season.

His current $65 million deal will expire at the end of the season. Leaving him open to contract offers in July.

Of which the Blackhawks could be one team that could utilize his services, and give the team’s 1st-line a jolt of production.

A line of Connor Bedard and Mitch Marner could be electrifying, and with $30 million in cap space, Davidson could spend to the cap in order to improve this team significantly.