As the NHL offseason approaches, all eyes are on Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner, whose future has become one of the league’s hottest topics. With his contract set to expire, Marner stands at a crossroads, poised to become one of the most sought-after free agents in recent memory.

After a career-best season and another heartbreaking playoff exit, speculation is swirling about whether he’ll return to Toronto or take his talents elsewhere. The uncertainty surrounding Marner’s next move has sparked widespread interest from teams across the league, and fans are eagerly awaiting his decision. As rumors intensify and the free agency window nears, the possibility of a major shakeup looms large—not just for the Maple Leafs, but for the entire NHL landscape. Marner’s choice could redefine the balance of power, and his next chapter promises to be one of the most compelling storylines of the summer.

Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner in playoff action against the Florida Panthers

Photo credit: The Hockey News

Pending Toronto Maple Leafs free agent forward Mitch Marner appears ready to test the open market, but could also consider re-signing with the Maple Leafs.

Toronto Maple Leafs pending free agent forward Mitch Marner is set to become one of the most coveted players to hit the open market in recent memory, as all indications point toward a split between him and his current club.

Like Marner, his teammate John Tavares is also a pending UFA; the Maple Leafs team that hits the ice this fall in Training Camp could look very different than the team that was defeated by the divisional foe Florida Panthers in 7 games last month.

Marner, who reached a new career-best 102 points (27G, 75A) this year, will have no shortage of potential suitors on the open market who would love to add his talent to their roster.

Per TSN’s Chris Johnston, Marner will be heading to the open market but hasn’t completely closed the door on any chance of a new contract with the Maple Leafs.

Chris Johnston: Mitch Marner will test the open market, but the Leafs will be a team he considers on July 1st – Chris Johnston Show

Among the teams that are expected to show heavy interest in Marner are the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Vegas Golden Knights, and Chicago Blackhawks.

Marner has even been suggested to be courted by the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators, which would be an especially strange sight considering the numerous battles that he and the Maple Leafs have had with them over the years.

If Marner does re-sign with the Maple Leafs, it would mean their management believes they can still get it done with him in the playoffs despite multiple past disappointments.