Mitch Marner's Maple Leafs future decided as NHL insider drops bombshell claim

After nine seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mitch Marner is entering free agency as an unrestricted free agent this summer. Once the season officially ends, he will be on the open market and can sign anywhere.

That includes returning to the Maple Leafs, although its chance of happening is slim. According to NHL insider Andy Strickland, he will not be back in Toronto next season.

"Can confirm Mitch Marner will not be returning to Toronto. Will be playing for a new team come next season," Strickland tweeted on Friday.

Marner was expected to be one of the top players on the market, but he's now a lot more interesting and a realistic option for many franchises. Hometown teams often have the advantage in negotiations, but that won't apply here.

He is expected to command up to $15 million AAV in his next deal. At age 28, Marner's still in his prime and will be highly desirable on a long contract. He could sign for six years or more at $15 million, matching some of the highest contracts in NHL history.

---

Mitch Marner's next team odds

With Mitch Marner and the Toronto Maple Leafs likely to part ways, it's a good time to look at who might sign him. Every team will probably consider him, especially if they can afford the salary. Marner is coming off a 102-point season.

Mitch Marner could sign with Vegas (Imagn)

According to Daily Faceoff, the Vegas Golden Knights are the favorites at +500 to be his next team. The Anaheim Ducks and LA Kings are next at +640.

The Carolina Hurricanes, a team in desperate need of scoring and with money to spend, are +800 to land the forward. The Utah Mammoth, recently renamed from the Hockey Club, along with the Florida Panthers, are +1000 to sign Marner.

However, the Kings, Golden Knights and Ducks remain the most likely landing spots, with Vegas coming in first as it is willing to spend and is a good, contending team.