The NHL announced yesterday that the salary cap will increase by $7.5 million next season and by a staggering $25.5 million over the next three years. This news has sparked Toronto Maple Leafs rumors that Mitch Marner could be seeking a massive payday, potentially eclipsing Auston Matthews‘ current team-high $13.25 million AAV.
According to Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star, Marner could push for a contract worth at least $14 million annually, a figure that might test the Leafs’ willingness to retain their star winger. With the projected cap increase, Toronto is set to have over $29.6 million in cap space next season, with 17 players already under contract. They certainly have the financial flexibility to re-sign Marner, but the real question remains—do they want to pay him more than their franchise cornerstone, Matthews?
Will the Leafs Let Marner Walk or Make a Trade?
Marner, 27, is having another productive season and remains one of the league’s premier playmakers. However, with Matthews locked into his four-year, $53 million contract extension, the Leafs face a critical decision. If Marner demands an AAV north of $14 million, could Toronto GM Brad Treliving explore the trade market rather than committing to such a high cap hit?
Recent NHL trade rumors suggest that Marner could command that salary on the open market, especially considering the increased spending power teams will have. The recent blockbuster trade that sent Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes highlights the tough cap-related choices teams are making. Colorado refused to pay Rantanen more than Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6 million AAV, leading to his trade. Could a similar fate await Marner if the Leafs hesitate to meet his demands?
With teams like the Detroit Red Wings, Utah Hockey Club, and Chicago Blackhawks potentially looking for elite playmakers, Marner’s future in Toronto is anything but guaranteed. The Leafs could leverage his trade value rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency. However, if they do let him walk, it would leave a massive hole in their forward core.
Marner also has the leverage, he owns a full no-move clause and if he wants to be a Leaf until free agency, he will be.
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