Mitch Marner is set to become one of the most sought-after free agents in the NHL offseason, after contract extension talks with the Toronto Maple Leafs failed to progress. The 28-year-old forward, who has shared the ice with Auston Matthews, is drawing interest from several franchises—and more teams continue to emerge as potential suitors.
Marner will consider the offers that suit him best, but it’s clear that this storyline is just getting started. Expect plenty of news and rumors in the coming days, as the forward, who scored 102 points last season, remains a top target for multiple NHL teams.
Matthews is once again expected to lead the Maple Leafs in a renewed push to make a deep playoff run after years of falling short. With the departure of team president Brendan Shanahan, the franchise is taking a new direction and preparing to build a roster without Marner—who is now being linked to another top contender.
The team targeting Marner
NHL insider Chris Johnston of TSN reported that the Carolina Hurricanes are expected to show serious interest in acquiring Marner, who will become a free agent in July 2025. “Carolina expected to make some of the biggest offers to Mitch Marner moneywise,” Johnston said.
Mitch Marner of the Maple Leafs
With roughly $36 million in available cap space, the Hurricanes are in a strong financial position to make a competitive offer for Marner, who had already been linked to the franchise earlier this year, the last in his long contract with the Maple Leafs.
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NHL News: Mitch Marner reportedly eyed by two Canadian teams amid his imminent exit from the Maple Leafs
Was Marner close to joining Carolina?
Marner was reportedly close to playing for the Canes months ago, when Toronto tried to float a trade idea involving the 28-year-old forward and Mikko Rantanen. The deal would have sent the then-Carolina star to the Maple Leafs. However, Marner refused to waive his no-trade clause and remained with the Canadian team.
