The chatter is growing louder: could the Toronto Maple Leafs make a stunning move and trade star winger Mitch Marner this offseason? With the spotlight becoming unbearably bright and postseason success continuing to elude the team, a major shakeup feels inevitable.
Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star has fueled speculation, arguing that it’s time for the Leafs and Marner to part ways. McGran suggests that a move to a smaller U.S.-based market like Utah, Columbus, or Seattle could give Marner some relief from the intense Toronto pressure.
3 Reasons Why Mitch Marner Could Be Traded This Offseason
1. Looming Contract Situation: Marner’s contract expires after the 2024-25 season. With a full no-movement clause, he holds tremendous leverage over the Leafs. If the team isn’t ready to commit to him long-term, a trade might be the only way to avoid losing him for nothing.
2. Postseason Struggles: Marner’s playoff performances have consistently fallen short of expectations. The relentless scrutiny and criticism only intensify in the postseason. A change of scenery might be the only way to break this cycle.
3. The Need to Shake Things Up: The Leafs’ core of Matthews, Marner, and Nylander has proven unable to break through in the playoffs. Management knows something major needs to change, and trading Marner would be a seismic shift.
Of course, it’s far from a guarantee. Marner could insist on playing out his contract and taking his chances as a free agent. But if the Leafs indicate they won’t be offering an extension, he might just agree to a move that benefits both him and the franchise.
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