The future of star forward Mitch Marner remains uncertain at this point in the NHL offseason. Extension talks with the Toronto Maple Leafs have been unsuccessful, and July 1 now looms as the date when the winger is expected to become a free agent. However, the Vegas Golden Knights are closely monitoring the situation.
In recent hours, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that there have been intermittent conversations between Vegas and Toronto about a potential sign-and-trade deal that could allow the Maple Leafs to receive assets in return for losing one of their offensive stars.
Friedman even mentioned that center Nic Roy could potentially join the Canadian franchise if such a deal were to happen. Time continues to tick, and new information keeps emerging about this situation. Marner’s future is under intense scrutiny at this stage of the year.
The update on a possible trade between Vegas and Toronto
TSN insider Darren Dreger shared a recent update on his X account (formerly Twitter) regarding the negotiations between Vegas and Toronto. “No trade call, nothing signed. More work ahead in terms of the potential of Mitch Marner being traded to Vegas and what the return might be,” he reported.
Mitchell Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs against the San Jose Sharks during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on November 30, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Despite multiple discussions throughout the week, no official agreement has been reached. Negotiations are ongoing, but no progress is expected at the moment, leaving executives and Marner himself in suspense. Possible scenarios are beginning to take shape.
see also
NHL News: Maple Leafs reportedly ready for last-minute blockbuster move involving Golden Knights and Mitch Marner
What options does Marner have?
At this point, unless the Maple Leafs and Golden Knights accelerate talks, the most realistic option for Marner and his camp is to wait until July 1 and enter the market to listen to offers. The 28-year-old forward has clear preferences, and several franchises are already preparing to offer him a contract that matches the 102 points he produced last season.
