NHL insider drops latest never-heard-before update on Mitch Marner's free agency situation - "It's big news"

Mitch Marner's will decide on his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is a few weeks. On Sunday's episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman said Marner will likely test free agency on July 1. He mentioned that teams like Anaheim, Carolina, LA and Vegas are interested in him.

Marner will likely be one of the most sought-after players this summer.

"Marner is the number one name on the market," Friedman said. (30:47). " ... We think that Anaheim is one of the teams that's gonna bid for him. There's been a lot of reporting about Carolina being very interested in him. People believe LA is very interested. People believe Vegas is definitely a team to watch."

Friedman also shared something new. Some teams heard Marner may not want a long seven-year deal. Instead, he could be go for a shorter four-year contract. This would let him sign another big deal in the future, just like what Auston Matthews did.

"There was a rumor going around this week," Friedman said. "That he might look at a four-year deal and then go for another one."

That approach would give Marner more control over his career. He has played nine seasons with the Leafs since being drafted in 2015, recording 741 points in 657 games, including a 102-point season. However, despite his regular season success, Toronto has only won two playoff series.

As per Friedman, Mitch Marner's camp has reportedly not engaged with the Leafs in discussions.

"You know, the Maple Leafs have tried to talk to Marner. Marner's camp is not engaged with them. And I think everybody knows the way this is going to be heading that on July 1."

The Maple Leafs tried to talk to Marner and his camp, but there has been no engagement from his side.

"I think everybody knows the way this is going to be heading," Friedman said. "That on July 1, he's going to go out there, he's going to hit the market, he's going to pick a team, he's going to set a contract, and he's not coming back to Toronto.

"But it's Marner, so everything around him is news — it's big news. (But) 16 more days around and then hopefully it's over."

Mitch Marner and the Leafs were at odds since the playoff exit

Mitch Marner spoke to the media after the Maple Leafs' season ended, but didn’t clearly say he wanted to return. He admitted that he enjoyed his time in Toronto, and left his plans open. It led to more speculation that he would be moving on.

Additionally, after the playoff exit, Leafs general manager Brad Treliving said that the team needs to change its DNA. He didn’t address whether Marner would get a new contract.

"I'm going to be in touch with Mitch's representative," Marner said in May. "You have to prepare for every potential outcome."

If Marner enters free agency, he could earn $13 million or more per season. He’s known for his passing, defensive play and penalty killing, and several teams would want to add his skill set.