NHL analysts urges Canucks, LA Kings, $1B franchise to 'do everything' to sign Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner in free agency

NHL analysts are calling on teams like the Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings and Columbus Blue Jackets to make a strong push to sign Mitch Marner if he becomes a free agent on July 1. The Toronto Maple Leafs forward has not committed to returning, and speculation around his future continues to grow.

On Saturday, The Athletic's Thomas Drance wrote that while Marner may not want to come to Vancouver, the Canucks should still try. He said the team needs elite forward talent, and Marner would be worth the cost.

Eric Stephens said the Kings should also "do everything they can." He pointed out that Los Angeles is still trying to win but lacks a true star. Marner, who just had a 102-point season, could be that missing piece.

"Adding him to a deep group that has lacked top-end firepower would boost their contending chances," Stephens wrote.

Aaron Portzline argued that the Blue Jackets, valued at $1 billion, according to Forbes, should also push hard. He said the team's rebuild is over, and Marner could help them take the next step. Columbus tied Toronto in goals last season and could become even stronger with Marner.

"The addition of Marner would give them one of the most dynamic groups of forwards in the league," Portzline wrote.

Mitch Marner has scored 741 points in 657 games since joining the NHL in 2016. He ranks among the league's best in assists and points. However, the Leafs' playoff success has been limited, and GM Brad Treliving has said the team's "DNA" needs to change.

Mitch Marner did not give a clear answer when asked about his return

Mitch Marner has not clearly stated whether he wants to return. He mentioned he loves playing in Toronto but did not commit to staying. He also turned down trade talks during the season and didn’t want to negotiate a new contract before July.

"I’ve always loved my time here," Marner said after the Leafs' playoff exit, according to NHL.com. "I loved being here. … I’ve been so grateful."

If Marner enters free agency, he is expected to be the top player available. His next contract could pay around $13 million per season. He could be one of the highest earners in the league, especially with the NHL's salary cap for the 2025-26 season going up to $95,500,000.