NHL News: Mitch Marner reportedly eyed by two Canadian teams amid his imminent exit from the Maple Leafs

Mitch Marner is on his way out of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and there are countless theories surrounding his next NHL team. There’s still time before we find out which jersey the 28-year-old forward will wear, but one thing is certain: he will be a highly sought-after name. In that context, two Canadian teams have recently emerged as potential suitors.

Marner’s contract, signed in 2019 with the Maple Leafs, is set to expire, and he will become a free agent on July 1. Talks of an extension haven’t gained much traction in Toronto, but any franchise looking to land the veteran right wing will need to meet his high salary demands.

Reportedly, Marner is expected to ask for around $13 million per year on his next contract with whichever team signs him. Time is ticking, and the prize is a player who scored 102 goals last season. On top of an already long list of potential destinations, two more teams have joined the race.

Which two Canadian teams want Marner?

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the two Canadian teams showing interest in pursuing Marner are the Calgary Flames and the Montreal Canadiens. Both are positioning themselves as possible destinations and could be eager to add the talented forward to strengthen their offensive lines.

A dejected Mitchell Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs leaves the ice for the last time this season after losing to the Florida Panthers in Game Seven of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

“Calgary, Montreal will express interest in Mitch Marner; don’t get the sense those are teams high on his list,” Pagnotta said. His comments refer to the 28-year-old forward’s reported preference not to play for any Canadian franchise, as he seeks a significant change of scenery.

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NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs reportedly willing to replace Mitch Marner with a Canucks forward

Where will Marner play?

It’s still far from certain where Mitch Marner will play next season. The Maple Leafs have even considered trading him, but a no-movement clause complicates that possibility. In Toronto, they know it’s most likely that the former teammate of Auston Matthews will be the one to decide his own future.