"Whoever he lands with will win a cup before the Leafs": NHL fans speculate Mitch Marner's next landing spot as reports hint at Toronto exit 

Reports are swirling that star winger Mitch Marner may be on his way out of Toronto as he heads toward unrestricted free agency this summer. Marner's current six-year, $65 million contract with the Maple Leafs is set to expire on July 1, leaving his future with the team uncertain.

Hockey reporter Andy Strickland confirmed the speculation on X/Twitter:

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

This news has Leafs fans taking to social media to share their reactions and speculate where Marner may land next.

One fan said:

"Whoever he lands with will win a cup before the Leafs."

Another fan wrote:

"Golden Knight."

Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"I think he would be very wise to choose a non-playoff Western team...." one fan wrote.

" Marner leaving does not provide more depth. Replacing him is going to be difficult. Everyone talks about the playoffs but remember you still have to qualify to make the playoffs! May be harder next year," another fan said.

"Edmonton Oilers. He wants to recreate that McDavid Marner Magic we all got to witness at the 4 nations," one fan commented.

"If he takes 14 millions x 7 years from Carolina it will be the biggest fuck you to Toronto since he refused a trade to them before trade deadline," a fan added.

Marner racked up 75 assists and 102 points over 81 regular-season games, then added 13 more points in 13 playoff appearances for Toronto this season.

David Pagnotta: Mitch Marner's next contract could go above $14M

NHL analyst David Pagnotta reports that the Carolina Hurricanes are likely to make a strong push for Mitch Marner if he hits free agency.

Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl stands as the league’s highest-paid player, earning $14 million annually. However, Pagnotta suggested the Hurricanes may be willing to surpass that amount with an offer of over $14 million annually on a seven-year term.

"When/if Mitch Marner hits the open market July 1, the expectation is the Carolina Hurricanes are going to take a massive swing to try and sign him," Pagnotta said. "Sources say we shouldn’t be surprised if they go above $14M on an AAV over a 7-year term. UFA market opens in 18 days."

The rising salary cap certainly enables teams to make these massive contract offers, as it is increasing from $88 million this season to $95.5 million in 2025-26, reaching $113.5 million by 2027-28.