Few stories have captured the attention of hockey fans this offseason quite like the swirling rumors around Mitch Marner’s next move. As the Toronto Maple Leafs’ dynamic right winger approaches unrestricted free agency, speculation is reaching a fever pitch—not just about where he’ll land, but about the potential message his decision could send.

With the Montreal Canadiens now emerging as a possible suitor, the narrative has taken on an even more dramatic twist, fueled by provocative suggestions from former players and media personalities. For Marner, whose relationship with the Leafs and their passionate fanbase has been complicated by years of playoff heartbreak and intense scrutiny, the prospect of joining a storied rival like Montreal isn’t just about a new contract—it’s about legacy, redemption, and perhaps even a hint of revenge. As the countdown to free agency begins, all eyes are on Marner, whose next chapter could reshape the NHL landscape and ignite one of hockey’s oldest rivalries in spectacular fashion.

May 9, 2025; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Mitch Marner (16) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the first period in game three of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

A first message has indeed just been sent to Mitch Marner, with the goal of bringing him to the Montreal Canadiens-under a rather intriguing pretext.

As reported by Marco Normandin, this would be a strong opportunity for Marner to “get revenge” on the Toronto Maple Leafs.. by signing here with the Habs!

Imagine the scenario.

In less than 10 days, unless there’s a major twist, Marner will officially become an unrestricted free agent.

He’ll be free to sign with any team, and it’s obvious that demand for him will be extremely high.

On that note, a former Hab has just sent him an interesting little message.

Mitch Marner to the Montreal Canadiens to send a message to the Toronto Maple Leafs and their fans who gave him such a hard time?

That’s the intriguing idea proposed by Maxim Lapierre of La Poche Bleue.

“If I’m Mitch Marner, with the way I was treated in Toronto, I’m going to Montreal with a middle finger and telling them ‘you f***ers, you’ll see, I’m gonna win the Cup in Montreal!’”

– Maxim Lapierre

I wonder if that’s something Marner might consider, especially if Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton are willing to put $13 or $14 million a year on the table.

It would be pretty incredible, though rather unlikely if you ask me.

At 28 years old, the 6-foot forward recorded 102 points in 81 games this season, after putting up 85 points in 69 games last season.

For the past five years, he’s consistently been a 100-point player (per 82 games), and has totaled 63 points in 70 NHL playoff games.

This will be a major story to follow in the NHL over the coming days and right after the draft.