For the first time in his remarkable career, Mitch Marner is set to test the waters of NHL free agency, sending shockwaves throughout the hockey world. As the Toronto Maple Leafs officially confirm that their star forward will explore his options this summer, speculation is running rampant about where one of the league’s most electrifying talents might land.

With his contract expiring and no new deal in place, Marner instantly becomes the most coveted name on the market, drawing interest from a host of teams eager to bolster their rosters with his dynamic skill set. The Chicago Blackhawks, armed with significant cap space, have emerged as a potential suitor, while other contenders like the Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights are also rumored to be in the mix. As July 1st approaches, all eyes are on Marner’s next move, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how this high-profile free agency saga will unfold and what it could mean for the balance of power in the NHL.

Mitch Marner

Photo credit: Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers

It’s been reported today by GM Brad Treliving of the Toronto Maple Leafs that forward Mitch Marner will test free agency, confirming that the Blackhawks have a good shot at signing him.

On Tuesday, July 1st, Mitch Marner will do something unique in his career for the first time. He’ll be hitting the free agent market in the NHL and will explore his best options as a forward who’s due a raise.

The pending UFA hasn’t signed a new deal with the Maple Leafs and has garnered interest around the league from multiple teams. The top free agent of this year’s class, which could see some exciting moves.

Pending UFA

It was announced today by GM Brad Treliving that Mitch Marner will be testing free agency.

Brad Treliving on Mitch Marner:

“I would probably describe it, unless there is a significant change here, I anticipate it will hit the free agent market. ”

We will likely never see a player as dynamic as Marner hit the free agency market again, as he’s likely to find a new home south of the border of Ontario.

The Chicago Blackhawks may have been ruled out of the initial sweepstakes, but with the amount of cap space available for Kyle Davidson to use, it wouldn’t be unreasonable for the team to call in on Marner.

His next contract could pay him up to an AAV of $14 million, and we could see teams like the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Chicago Blackhawks (if Kyle Davidson is bold enough) to open their purses.

Marner scored a total of 102 points in 81 games this season with the Maple Leafs and is a former Selke Trophy nominee.

He’s going cup-hunting before anything, but that doesn’t mean Kyle Davidson couldn’t try to lure him to an up-and-coming roster in the NHL.