"Not giving him $14 million in a million years": 3-time Stanley Cup champ cautions teams against Mitch Marner's high price tag

The Toronto Maple Leafs could soon lose Mitch Marner. He is expected to test free agency after the 2024-25 season. Marner has been an important player for the Maple Leafs but may not stay. The team might lose him without getting anything in return.

Three-time Stanley Cup champion Ken Daneyko gave a clear warning on Friday’s episode of NHL Tonight.

“Now, $14 million? We’re here to give opinions, right? I’m not giving Mitch Marner $14 million a year—no chance.”

Daneyko said this is not an attack on Marner. He noted Mitch Marner is very skilled and nearly a 100-point player every year.

"He’s incredibly skilled, nearly a 100-point player year in and year out. But in today’s NHL, with how close the competition is and how tight the cap can be, you need more than just regular-season production. You need playoff impact."

But Daneyko believes playoff success is what really matters. He said teams must pay for more than regular-season points. He said:

“Until a player proves they can step up in big moments, I don’t care if they score 200 points in the regular season. I’m not paying $14 million for that.”

Daneyko gave examples of the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers. He said these teams are now built for the playoffs. He believes teams need players who perform well when the games are most important.

Some reports suggest the Carolina Hurricanes could sign Marner. Daneyko said there have always been talks about this. But he warned teams not to offer Marner too much money.

"Now, maybe Marner finds the right fit somewhere else—Carolina’s a name that’s come up. There have always been rumblings. But for me, as a GM? I’m not paying that kind of money until I see it in the playoffs," Daneyko said.

Hurricanes eye Mitch Marner as Leafs face uncertain offseason

Mitch Marner’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is unclear. His contract ends on July 1, and he did not sign a new deal during the 2024-25 season. After another playoff exit, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving said the team needs to change and that they are preparing for all possible outcomes.

In his last media interaction, Marner gave no clear answer about staying.

"I've always loved my time here," Marner said, via NHL.com. " ... I've been so grateful."

The Carolina Hurricanes are interested in signing Marner if he becomes a free agent. They have $28 million in cap space and want to add a top forward, according to The Athletic's James Mirtle.