NHL Rumors: $1.4B Maple Leafs rival making 'summer push' to sign-and-trade Mitch Marner

The Florida Panthers are preparing to make a big move this summer by acquiring star winger Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to NHL insider Cam Robinson.

Marner's six-year $65.4 million contract is set to expire on July 1, and if the Leafs don't reach an extension before then, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent. After another early playoff exit by Toronto, speculation is growing that the team could move on from Marner.

Robinson reported that there is "real smoke" about the Panthers, who are worth $1.4 billion (according to Forbes), gearing up to make a push for him.

"There’s “real smoke” that the Florida Panthers might be preparing to make a summer push for Leafs forward and superstar Mitch Marner,” Robinson wrote on Sunday, via Elite Prospects.

Robinson highlighted a potential sign-and-trade scenario where the Leafs re-sign Marner to a maximum eight-year deal, then trade him to Florida for valuable assets.

"The Leafs know that Marner is all but assured to leave," Robinson wrote. "For the acquiring team, moving a draft pick to avoid a bidding war is a very palatable cost."

However, Robinson added that it's uncertain whether Marner would be open to the sign and trade approach. He questioned if Marner would be willing to give up the eighth year to hit the open market, be courted like a star and potentially maximize his value with a seven-year deal.

Through 81 games this season, Marner has tallied 75 assists and 102 points. In the playoffs, he added another 13 points in 13 games.

Florida Panthers "moves" to sign Mitch Marner

NHL insider Cam Robinson pointed out that signing Mitch Marner would likely come at a cost for the Florida Panthers. They would probably have to let this year's trade deadline acquisition, Brad Marchand, walk in free agency. Additionally, Sam Bennett would also likely leave as a free agent if Marner joins them.

“The Panthers, for their credit, are known for their aggressive swings," Robinson wrote on Sunday, via Elite Prospects. "And this would certainly fall under that category.”

Marner would bring immense talent to the Panthers' top-six forward group and bolster their chances of capturing the Stanley Cup. However, they would have to sacrifice depth and chemistry to land the superstar winger.