Could Mitch Marner be donning a Blueshirt next season? It’s a question that’s starting to surface in NHL trade circles, and one that has Rangers fans buzzing with excitement.
As the hockey world knows, Marner’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs has been uncertain. After a disappointing playoff performance and no contract extension in sight, his name was tossed around in trade talks all summer. While he ultimately remained a Leaf, the lack of a new contract continues to fuel speculation about his future.
ESPN’s Emily Kaplan recently added fuel to the fire, reporting that Rangers GM Chris Drury has his eye on a big-name free agent this summer, with Marner squarely in his sights. This isn’t just idle chatter; the Rangers are projected to have over $20 million in cap space next season, enough to make a serious run at the talented winger.
Of course, signing Marner would eat up a significant chunk of that space, leaving Drury with limited flexibility to address other roster needs. It’s possible that Drury would need to shed some salary to make a Marner signing work, potentially through trades or buyouts.
New York Rangers Eyeing Mitch Marner: A Perfect Fit?
Marner’s offensive firepower is undeniable. He’s a dynamic playmaker with exceptional vision and puck-handling skills. Adding him to the Rangers’ already potent offense would create a nightmare for opposing defenses. Imagine Marner feeding passes to Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad – the possibilities are tantalizing.
However, Marner’s playoff consistency has been questioned at times. Would he thrive under the bright lights of Broadway and the intense pressure that comes with playing for the NY Rangers? That remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: if Marner hits the open market, the Rangers will be in the mix. Drury has shown a willingness to be aggressive in pursuing top talent, and Marner fits the bill.
This situation is definitely one to watch as we approach free agency. If Marner and the Leafs don’t reach an agreement by next April, expect the Rangers rumors to intensify.
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Rangers already have a high scoring / highly paid non physical winger who disappears in the playoffs. Why would they look to add another?