NHL Trade Rumors: Mitch Marner seeking 8-year, $104,000,000 contract extension with Toronto Maple Leafs

Mitch Marner may become a free agent this summer but is open to staying with the Toronto Maple Leafs. NHL insider David Pagnotta reports that Marner wants an eight-year, $104 million contract. He likes Toronto but wants a competitive deal.

"The expectation remains that Mitch Marner will hit free agency this summer. He loves Toronto and isn’t closing the door on staying, but he’s seeking a competitive contract starting at $104 million over eight years." Pagnotta said [via Leafs Latest on X (formerly Twitter)]

Before the trade deadline on Friday, the Carolina Hurricanes asked for Mitch Marner in a deal for Mikko Rantanen. Toronto considered it, but Marner - who is playing in the last year of his 6-year, $65,408,000 contract - used his no-movement clause to refuse the trade. Later, Carolina chose the Dallas Stars trade offer instead.

Marner continues to play well despite the rumors. He scored twice in Toronto’s 7-4 loss to Colorado and is on a six-game scoring streak. He has 21 goals and 58 assists this season and is on track for 101 points, which would be a career high. Marner has scored at least 20 goals in five straight seasons.

Toronto must decide whether to meet Mitch Marner’s contract demands or explore other options. If he becomes a free agent, different teams will show interest. His decision will affect the Maple Leafs’s future plans and salary cap.

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Mitch Marner talked about the Hurricanes trade rumors and his contract talks

In his interview with Sportsnet's Luke Fox on Saturday, Mitch Marner did not give a clear answer about his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

“I wasn’t focused on it. I had a feeling that maybe something might happen,” Marner said about the Hurricanes rumors. “But, yeah, I’m here to play hockey with this team, like I said, and I’m focused with this team. And that’s what I can tell you.”

After the Leafs' loss to the Colorado Avalanche, Marner was asked if he sees himself as a Maple Leaf next season. He did not say yes or no.

“Like I talked to you guys, man, I’m not gonna get into any of this contract stuff,” he said. “I’ve been very grateful, and I’ve loved my time being a Leaf. So, I’ll leave it with you guys.”

Marner refused to say if he is willing to negotiate a contract before his current deal expires on July 1. His agent, Darren Ferris, often takes clients to a free agency to get the best deal. So far, there is no sign that Marner will change that approach. Toronto risks losing Marner for nothing if he reaches free agency.