Chris Johnston reveals the extent of Maple Leafs uncertainty in Marner situation
The Mitch Marner contract situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs has faced difficulties, with the ball seemingly held in Marner's court for the Leafs to come asking, according to a new report.
According to NHL Insider Chris Johnston shared on "The Chris Johnston Show" that the Leafs are still undecided on the future regarding Marner, with the star forward entering the final year on his contract next season. Johnston stays the Leafs aren't certain in either direction in regards to trading or keeping Marner, with all options open.
Brad Treliving said in an interview in The Athletic with Pierre LeBrun that he wouldn't trade Marner for the sake of a trade, but to get fair value. Johnston says the Leafs have concern over making a bad trade for one of the team's best players in his prime.
Johnston also mentions Marner's no-move clause, which complicates the situation for Toronto, given almost complete leverage to the forward and hid agent, Darren Ferris. Johnston says Marner has "full control" over his decision for next season, with the potential that the Leafs know they are "walking him into free agency" with Marner returning without a contract.
Johnston says teams have called on Marner with media reports linking him to a potential exit, GM's looking at potential deals that could be made for the Leafs star.
Marner would have to approve any potential trade by waiving his NMC, but reports have expressed Marner's desire to remain in Toronto next season. If Marner wishes to stay, there is little the Leafs can do otherwise.
Marner, 27, had 26 goals, 59 assists & 85 points in 69 games this past season for the Maple Leafs, along with a goal and 3 points in the playoffs, a round one loss to the Boston Bruins.
| POLL | ||
What should the Toronto Maple Leafs do in regards to Mitch Marner? | ||
| Sign Marner | 356 | 46.5 % |
| Trade Marner | 311 | 40.7 % |
| Let Marner Go To Free Agency | 98 | 12.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
