The Chicago Blackhawks’ ongoing rebuild has been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation, especially as the team looks to surround young phenom Connor Bedard with elite talent. With Mitch Marner, a 102-point forward and one of the NHL’s most dynamic playmakers, poised to become a high-profile free agent, many expected the Blackhawks to make a strong push for his services.

However, recent developments indicate that General Manager Kyle Davidson has made a definitive decision to pass on the Maple Leafs star, despite the team’s ample cap space and pressing need for a top-six difference-maker. While Marner’s offensive prowess is undeniable, questions linger about his fit within Chicago’s timeline and the demands he might command on the open market.

As the Blackhawks chart their course for the future, their focus may now shift to other available talents, signaling a new direction in their pursuit of a competitive roster. With several contenders circling Marner and the free agency landscape set to explode in July, the coming weeks promise to reshape the outlook for both the Blackhawks and the NHL’s summer drama.

Connor Bedard

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

It appears that Kyle Davidson’s made a final decision on Mitch Marner, and the 102-point forward won’t be joining Connor Bedard or the Chicago Blackhawks.

While the Chicago Blackhawks desperately need top talent to push the team’s rebuild forward, they’ve made a decision regarding Mitch Marner.

The 102-point scoring, $65 million forward is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season. With no contract in sight with the Toronto Maple Leafs, he could be a highly sought-after player in July.

While Marner would be a benefit to the Blackhawks’ ranks, Kyle Davidson has decided to pass on the forward.

His contract demands could be shouldered by the team, considering they have nearly $31 million in cap space. But instead, won’t allocate cap space to a possible $13-14 million demand that Marner could ask for.

Marner may not have the tools needed for the Blackhawks’ rebuild, considering the fact that he and Toronto’s core four were unable to shut the door on the Florida Panthers in seven games.

With Jeff Blashill behind the bench, the team needs to make a huge leap forward and Marner could be a huge “it” factor for the team.

But Marner and the Blackhawks may never meet or come to terms in July, as other suitors have arisen.

These include the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, two legitimate Stanley Cup contenders.

It appears neither fits each other’s timelines, as the Blackhawks will have to look at different options available in July.

Marner may not be one of them, but there are a multitude of top-six talents available, including Brock Boeser.