Toronto, June 17, 2025 — After a decade with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mitch Marner appears to be nearing the end of his tenure with the franchise, as the star winger heads toward unrestricted free agency on July 1.
However, despite growing interest across the NHL, Marner may be in for a harsh market correction, with top suitors reportedly unwilling to meet his hefty contract demands.
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Drafted fourth overall in 2015, Marner has been a central figure in Toronto’s modern core alongside Auston Matthews. Though their partnership yielded strong regular-season performances, the team repeatedly fell short in the playoffs—something fans in Toronto have never fully forgiven.
Now, with yet another early postseason exit, the winds of change are blowing strong through Scotiabank Arena.
According to league insiders, the Leafs have come to terms with Marner’s likely departure and are not anticipating his return for the 2025-26 season. While Marner is expected to fetch a sizable deal in free agency, his reported $14 million-per-year expectations over seven years have cooled the enthusiasm of at least one serious bidder.
The Anaheim Ducks, who were thought to be frontrunners for the winger’s services, have reportedly backed off due to the steep price tag.
Insider Frank Seravalli revealed on the DFO Rundown that Anaheim has no intention of offering the proposed long-term deal, raising questions about how many teams will be willing—or able—to accommodate Marner’s contract terms under the salary cap.
As anticipation builds for July 1, NHL insider Darren Dreger poured cold water on hopes of an immediate signing, suggesting on TSN Toronto 1050 that Marner’s decision may stretch into mid-July. Unless Toronto and Marner pull off a last-minute reconciliation—seen as highly unlikely—the winger’s next move will usher in a new chapter not only for himself, but potentially for the Leafs’ entire core.
Whether Marner becomes the first domino to fall or simply an isolated shift remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the Maple Leafs—and Marner—are heading for a summer of major transition.
