The hockey world is abuzz with speculation and intrigue as one of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ brightest stars, Mitch Marner, finds himself at the center of a storm that could reshape the franchise’s future. With his contract set to expire and rumors swirling about his next destination, fans and insiders alike are desperate for answers.

Recent revelations from NHL Insider Andy Strickland have only added fuel to the fire, hinting at motivations far deeper than the pursuit of a record-breaking payday. As whispers grow louder about Marner’s desire for a fresh start and a new challenge, questions abound: What has truly driven the superstar winger to consider leaving the only NHL home he’s ever known? Which teams are poised to make a play for his elite talents? And what does this mean for the Maple Leafs as they face yet another offseason of uncertainty and high expectations? One thing is certain—Mitch Marner’s next move will send shockwaves throughout the league, and the eyes of the hockey world are locked on Toronto, waiting to see what happens next.

Photo credit: Chris Young/CP

NHL Insider Andy Strickland of the Cam & Strick Podcast revealed the reason why Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner would be leaving the organization.

NHL Insider Andy Strickland of the Cam & Strick Podcast revealed to us all that the Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner wouldn’t return to the organization for the 2025-26 season. He will instead test free agency and find a better deal south of the border in the United States.

Marner is due a nice raise due to a productive season netting 102 points (27-75) and is a pending UFA as his $65.41 million deal expires at the end of the year.

His next contract could yield up to $14 million AAV for the former Selke Trophy nominee, and not too many teams can payout that kind of cash, especially contenders.

But Andy Strickland has an interesting story on why Marner is leaving Toronto, and it won’t be for money. The team itself wouldn’t be able to pay him what Auston Matthews is making at the moment, but there is something else at play.

«I don’t believe Mitch Marner leaving Toronto is about chasing the biggest contract, so much focus has been about him possibly being paid $14 million or more. Truly believe this is about a change of scenery and a fresh start. He’s been paid crazy money for several years, I don’t think he’s chasing the biggest contract as much as he is a chance to win elsewhere.»

Marner could use a fresh start in the NHL and has been linked to the Florida Panthers, the Vegas Golden Knights, and the Los Angeles Kings.

We’ll see if any of them have the kind of juice needed to acquire a superstar like Mitch Marner in July.