NHL News: Why could Mitch Marner leave the Maple Leafs? Toronto drops key hints

The Toronto Maple Leafs have entered a deep rebuilding process following their second-round defeat to the Florida Panthers in the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. One of the most pressing issues for the Canadian franchise is the future of forward Mitch Marner.

Despite public statements of support, the relationship between the Maple Leafs and Marner has cooled significantly, and fans remain focused on a final resolution that aligns with the team’s goal of returning to Stanley Cup contention after nine consecutive playoff appearances but only two second-round berths.

Marner has proven to be one of the team’s key players alongside captain Auston Matthews and other players like John Tavares. However, in this context, conflicting reports and rumors are mounting—ranging from interest from other teams to speculative scenarios. For both Marner and the Maple Leafs, the situation remains open, but GM Brad Treliving has offered some key insights.

Why would Marner leave the Maple Leafs?

Marner would leave Toronto primarily due to his desire for a fresh start and a disagreement with the franchise. Contract extension talks between the Maple Leafs and Marner are currently stalled. At the same time, the team reportedly does not see a renewal as a priority at this point in the offseason.

Mitch Marner #16 of the Toronto Maple Leafs reacts after losing to the Florida Panthers 6-1 in Game Seven of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on May 18, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

GM Treliving’s comments bring clarity

“This isn’t a deflection. I think Mitch is a tremendous player. I think he’s a star. We’re in that process right now. Mitch and I had a discussion (during exit meetings). My discussion was, ‘Let’s take a step back, breathe a little,’” said the Maple Leafs GM in an interview with NHL.com.

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“We’re going to meet as a staff, I’m going to be in touch with Mitch’s representative. Mitch has a say in this as well. You have to prepare for every potential outcome. That’s what we’re in the process of doing right now” Treliving added.

What is Marner’s contract situation with the Maple Leafs?

Marner is entering the final year of his six-year, $65.4 million contract with the Maple Leafs. If no extension is reached, he will become an unrestricted free agent in July. From Toronto’s side, a new deal would mean making him one of the highest-paid players in the league.