NHL News: Golden Knights willing to go all-in to land Mitch Marner after his exit from Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs

Mitch Marner’s situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs has reached the point of no return. The forward, who spent several seasons as Auston Matthews’ linemate, is ready to test free agency and suit up for the 2025–26 NHL season. The Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly prepared to make a strong push for the 28-year-old winger.

Marner is closing the chapter on a long stint in Toronto, wrapping up a six-year contract worth approximately $65.4 million, with an average annual value of $10.9 million. Extension talks between the two sides did not end on good terms, and the relationship ultimately fractured.

Matthews will now be the Maple Leafs’ clear-cut centerpiece heading into next season and will be without a key linemate up front. Among several interested teams, Marner sees the Golden Knights as a franchise positioning itself for a serious offer on July 1.

What are the Golden Knights willing to offer for Marner?

NHL insider Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet shared what the Golden Knights may be ready to put on the table for Marner. “Vegas is getting ready to take a big run at Marner. This is where we’ll keep an eye on how expendable William Karlsson is to the team,” he said.

William Karlsson of the Vegas Golden Knights

Kypreos’ report suggests that speculation surrounding a potential Karlsson trade is legitimate. With a cap hit of $5.9 million for two more seasons, moving him could free up significant space to sign Marner. Acquiring a forward of Marner’s caliber would be a major boost for the Golden Knights.

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NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs advised to reshape roster identity rather than replace Mitch Marner one-for-one

Other possible paths to land Marner

While trading Karlsson remains a viable option to clear cap space and pursue Marner, it may not be the only route Vegas could take. Insiders like Elliotte Friedman and journalist Danny Webster have reported that the Golden Knights are not necessarily eager to put Karlsson on the market, though they are determined to make a serious offer for the Toronto star.