Mitch Marner and the Toronto Maple Leafs’ story is nearing its final chapter—and it’s not a happy one. With the star winger’s departure all but certain, the organization is already scanning the NHL for a replacement. Reportedly, Auston Matthews’ newest teammate could be coming from the New York Rangers.
The Maple Leafs are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit for Marner’s replacement. Keeping a close eye on every contract dispute and ongoing situation around the NHL, Toronto is ever active at the moment.
However, finding a player who can feed off Matthews and recreate the dynamic duo he formed with Marner won’t be easy. If Marner officially walks away from the organization on July 1st, it will mark the end of an era. Though his final memories in Toronto may not be fond ones, Matthews and the Leafs could still use a player with his star power.
There are no secrets in the NHL—word travels faster than the puck around the boards. On that note, Matthews’ Leafs have reportedly taken notice of the recent buzz surrounding a key Rangers star in Manhattan. With Marner set to leave and John Tavares yet to sign an extension, Toronto is said to be keeping a close eye on developments at Madison Square Garden.
Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers scores his hattrick goal at 7:44 of the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Madison Square Garden on January 02, 2022 in New York City.
The Rangers and Mika Zibanejad have reportedly agreed moving on would be best for both parties, as the 32-year-old has regressed in his production recently. The Maple Leafs are reportedly a team to watch if the divorce between the player and organization comes into fruition.
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“[The Rangers would] still need to find a fit—the Leafs might have some interest and some space to fill,” The Athletic’s Arthur Staple said.
Marner’s road ahead
With his departure from Toronto impending, much is being said about Marner’s future once the NHL enters its new calendar year on July. While many expect the Maple Leafs’ soon-to-be UFA to sign with his new team right away, others have stated otherwise.
“It sounds like the possibility exists that this may not be a July 1 thing. Marner’s choice could be to set up Zooms, or if teams want in-person meetings, on July 1 or right after, and then maybe he goes and visits one or two places,” Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman said.
Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs poses for his portrait prior to the 2024 Honda NHL All-Star Game on February 03, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario.
No turning back
Anything can happen in the NHL—fans and media alike have grown used to unexpected plot twists in recent years. Yet when it comes to Marner’s situation, the writing appears to be on the wall. Reportedly, Matthews and the rest of the organization have come to terms with how things are unfolding.
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“Marner’s camp is not engaged with [Toronto]. And I think everybody knows the way this is going to be heading,” Friedman said during Sunday’s episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast. “On July 1, he’s going to go out there, he’s going to hit the market, he’s going to pick a team, set a contract, and he’s not coming back to Toronto.”
