The Toronto Maple Leafs’ painful playoff loss in the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup has deeply impacted the Canadian franchise. The team, led by star Auston Matthews, could be on the verge of losing Mitch Marner,, a key figure who is now being linked to the Los Angeles Kings as a possible landing spot.
Marner appears unlikely to renew his contract with Toronto and is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, when the offseason officially begins and franchises begin pursuing their top targets. In that context, the 28-year-old right winger is emerging as a prime opportunity.
Toronto’s elimination marked the ninth straight postseason in which the Matthews-led franchise was knocked out in the first or second round, extending its championship drought that dates back to 1967. Uncertainty looms in Toronto, and the Kings appear ready to capitalize.
Kings reportedly interested in Marner
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reported in The Athletic that new GM Ken Holland and the Kings are preparing to be aggressive this summer, aiming to “hunt big game.” He added that he wouldn’t be surprised if Los Angeles made a move for Marner should he hit the open market.
Marner finished the 2024–25 season with 102 points, leading the team in assists and total points. Despite his strong performance, his future in Toronto remains unclear. At the same time, his relationship with the front office has been strained, especially after management reportedly asked him to waive his no-trade clause to facilitate a potential deal with the Carolina Hurricanes involving Mikko Rantanen, a proposal Marner turned down.
Where will Marner play next?
It’s still unknown where Marner will play next season, but according to insider Anthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff, the Maple Leafs star has reportedly ruled out an arrival to any of the league’s Canadian teams, as he is seeking a complete change of scenery. In that scenario, the Kings could have an edge if they decide to aggressively pursue him.