It is clear that Mitch Marner is ready to become a free agent from the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are undergoing a full rebuild after last NHL season. The renewal of a key teammate of Auston Matthews is part of these plans.
Marner’s contract with Toronto ends in late June, making him a free agent starting July 1. Talks to renew his deal with the Maple Leafs do not seem to have a conclusion that satisfies both parties involved.
The Canadian franchise is going through changes in its management following Brendan Shanahan’s departure as president after a tenure that began in 2014. Toronto is committed to making changes and renovations under a new plan that puts Matthews in the lead role.
Who could receive a contract extension with the Maple Leafs?
The teammate of Auston Matthews who could be in line for a contract extension with the Maple Leafs is none other than John Tavares. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Toronto could structure his extension with a standout base contract supplemented by performance-based bonuses.
This type of deal would mirror the one used by the Seattle Kraken with Yanni Gourde. If Tavares agrees to the new terms, his salary would remain competitive while allowing the Maple Leafs to better manage their salary cap following Mitch Marner’s likely departure.
How this differs from Marner’s situation
Extending Tavares’ contract would be a much simpler process compared to reaching a deal with Marner, who is reportedly seeking $13 million per year. At 35 years old, Tavares has made it clear that he wants to stay in Toronto. However, nothing is set in stone yet.