Mitch Marner could exit Maple Leafs after years of pressure: Report

Mitch Marner has been the Toronto Maple Leafs ' leading player for a long time. He scores lots of points and wins games for his team. But now that his massive contract is running out soon, there are strong indications he won't remain. A hockey journalist Chris Johnston said there's "zero reason" Marner will re-sign with the team. The fans are now curious as to what happens next.

Mitch Marner desires a clean slate after decades of backlash

Mitch Marner is a smart playmaker and has awesome chemistry with Auston Matthews. That's amazing. But he gets blamed by fans when the team loses in the playoffs, which has happened repeatedly.


The team tried to trade him to the Hurricanes earlier this year for another superstar, Mikko Rantanen. But no, says Mitch Marner. Some believed that he wanted to remain and sign a new contract with Toronto.\

"[As] a player [I'd say], 'they think we're going to get killed...this series is over... talking about [Mitch] Marner leaving, what's the worst thing that can happen?' Just go out there and play."@FriedgeHNIC on #LeafsForever's Game 6 mindset with @Mattymar89 & @FutaMichael. pic.twitter.com/95fOuEa3IH

— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) May 16, 2025

But journalist Chris Johnston writes that isn't the case. MitchMarner simply didn't want to relocate during the season. His team didn't want to negotiate a new contract until the season ended.


Now it appears that Mitch Marner would like to change things up. He may want a team where individuals don't pin so much blame on him when they lose.

Matthew Knies may be Leafs' biggest priority this offseason

While supporters are discussing Marner, the organization has other concerns on their minds. One of the large tasks is getting Matthew Knies signed to a contract extension. He is only 22 years old and scored 29 goals this season. During the playoffs, he's seeing a lot of time and performing well. If the organization wishes to retain him, they must budget.


The Leafs also don't have a lot of goals from their bottom six players, which is a huge issue. If they overpay Marner, they won't be able to address that.


John Tavares is another huge name. He may also depart, but he's open to discussing a new contract now. If he doesn't go, then the team may not have to scramble to replace him. That would provide them with additional time to decide what to do with Marner.


Also Read: As Fans Walk Out In Disgust, Mitch Marner Says "Flush It Down The Toilet"—Has His Time In Toronto Flushed Away Too?