A stunning development has jolted the Toronto hockey scene just weeks before free agency, as Mitch Marner—long presumed to be on his way out—has unexpectedly extended an olive branch to the Maple Leafs. In a move that has left fans and analysts alike scrambling for answers, reports now suggest that Marner’s camp is open to meeting with Toronto, despite months of apparent disengagement and speculation about his future.

The star forward’s refusal to discuss an extension or waive his no-movement clause seemed to seal his fate, but this latest twist has reignited intrigue around his next steps. With the hockey world watching closely, questions swirl: Is this a genuine attempt at reconciliation, a strategic maneuver, or simply a formality as Marner weighs his options? As July 1 approaches and the stakes rise, the uncertainty surrounding one of the Leafs’ most polarizing figures only deepens, setting the stage for a dramatic offseason saga.

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Mitch Marner made a shocking offer to the Toronto Maple Leafs ahead of free agency, according to Elliotte Friedman.

By now, most fans and analysts have accepted that Mitch Marner’s time in Toronto is coming to an end. Following yet another tough year, the star forward has long been expected to leave as an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Reports confirmed he has refused to engage in extension talks with the Maple Leafs and even declined to waive his no-movement clause during the season, blocking any potential trade.

So why would Marner suddenly be open to a meeting with Toronto once free agency opens?

In a surprising twist, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed on Sunday’s episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast that Marner’s camp has offered the Maple Leafs a meeting, just like they plan to do with other interested teams.

The idea of Marner meeting again with a team he’s seemingly had no interest in re-signing with has raised eyebrows across the league.

I think, and again nobody is confirming this, I think the Maple Leafs were offered one of the meetings.

Another team told me it was kind of funny to them because they are like ‘Why would the Maple Leafs? What possibly could be the benefit of a meeting between Marner and the Maple Leafs? They already know everything about each other?”

Listen to the full 32 Thoughts episode here:

It’s unclear whether the Leafs will accept the meeting, or if it’s simply a procedural move by Marner’s camp to keep options open. The Leafs, after all, are already intimately familiar with the player, his game, and his contract demands.

While many expected Marner’s decision to be announced quickly on July 1, Friedman hinted that the winger could take a more measured approach. He may choose to meet with multiple teams, and potentially visit their facilities, before making a final decision.