Leafs to flex financial muscle to facilitate Mitch Marner trade

PUBLICATION

Tyler Ball
May 25, 2024 (7:53 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to trade forward Mitch Marner this summer and now a new report has revealed how they plan to get a massive haul in return.

Everyone in the hockey world knows that a Mitch Marner trade is expected to happen this summer. Until this point the return has been a bit unknown due to the high salary that Mitch Marner has and an upcoming bonus he is due. According to a report from insider David Pagnotta the Maple Leafs are willing to take on more financially to get a bigger return from other teams.

One thing to consider, if Toronto goes down this path, they will want to maximize a return, and MLSE isn't afraid to flex their financial muscles and pay Marner's upcoming $7.25 million bonus before finalizing a trade.

David Pagnotta also admits the Mitch Marner's preference is to stay in Toronto and be a Maple Leaf. He believes that the front office will have discussions in the coming weeks to discuss their plans.

In speaking with those close to Marner's camp, it remains clear his desire to stay in Toronto has not wavered. I'm told Marner's preference and priority is to be with the Maple Leafs long-term. That's his goal. Do the Maple Leafs feel differently? That is what management will discuss and debate internally.

Once a decision is made the Maple Leafs will likely begin having discussions with other teams regarding Mitch Marner or they will have extension talks. Either way reports will come out confirming what the plan is for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Mitch Marner.

Source: The Fourth Period - ULLMARK LEADS HOT GOALIE MARKET; MARNER WANTS TO STAY