A seismic shift has just rocked the hockey world as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Mitch Marner officially part ways, signaling the end of an era in Toronto. The 28-year-old hometown hero, who once realized his childhood dream by donning the blue and white, is now set to test the open market for the first time in his career.

After a stellar season that saw him reach new personal bests, Marner’s departure marks a significant turning point for both player and franchise. As the free agency window approaches, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch, with powerhouse teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and Carolina Hurricanes reportedly preparing massive offers to lure Marner into their ranks. With rumors swirling of a potential record-breaking contract, all eyes are on where the dynamic forward will land next, and how the Maple Leafs will reshape their identity in the wake of this monumental decision.

Mitch Marner

Photo credit: NHL.COM

In a development that was just confirmed by Rinkside NHL reporter Andy Strickland, he has confirmed that the Toronto Maple Leafs and Mitch Marner are officially going their separate ways and that the 28-year-old forward will be testing the open market on July 1st.

Born in Markham, Ontario, in 1997, Marner fulfilled his longtime childhood dream of being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2015 NHL entry draft.

This past year Marner completed a career-high season while posting 27 goals and 102 points in 81 games played, on the last year of his six-year, $65.41M contract.

His production in the playoffs, that would ultimately end up leading to the breakup of Toronto’s ‘core four,’ consisted of two goals in 13 playoff games.

TSN’s Chris Johnston recently revealed that he expects the Chicago Blackhawks and Carolina Hurricanes to submit the biggest offers to the pending free agent once the market opens up on July 1st.

Carolina Hurricanes expected to deliver max contract offer to Mitch Marner

The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta offered insight into the Carolina Hurricanes’ offseason plans, and it involves a substantial, record-breaking offer of $98M.

”When/if Mitch Marner hits the open market July 1, the expectation is the Carolina Hurricanes are going to take a massive swing to try and sign him. Sources say we shouldn’t be surprised if they go above $14M on an AAV over a 7-year term. UFA market opens in 18 days.”

Toronto’s now entering a new chapter this offseason, and despite a seven-game series against the Florida Panthers in this years Stanley Cup Playoffs, the entire roster is expected to appear very different come puck drop of the 2025-26 season.