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Two frontrunners emerge for star forward Mitch Marner

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Samer Dagher
May 8, 2024 (7:00 PM)

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Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner

Photo credit: The Hockey News

Mitch Marner, star forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has faced criticism in Toronto, especially during the playoffs, for his perceived lack of effort and offensive output. With just one year left on his contract, trade rumors have been swirling around him since the Leafs were eliminated.

While Marner has expressed his desire to remain in Toronto, the team could decide to trade him or offer him a contract extension.

Toronto Star reporter Kevin McGran recently discussed potential trade destinations for Marner, suggesting that he could be traded to either the Tampa Bay Lightning or the new team in Utah. However, ultimately, the decision lies with Marner himself, as he holds a full no-trade clause in his contract.

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"This would be up to Marner, who has a full no-movement clause in his contract. But Marner may feel he's not the best fit in Toronto. He takes criticism personally, and there's a lot of it in Toronto. And there was some sniping in the playoffs among the core players that suggested all may not be well. Marner, Matthews and Nylander were spotted visibly frustrated with each other in Game 4, though they all said that was related to a single play and said not to put too much stock in it.

Still, Marner may feel better going to a sunshine state where he can be the best player and live in relative anonymity.

Given he is eligible to sign an extension this summer, a sign-and-trade could well be in the works. Marner would be coveted by any team. Lightning coach Jon Cooper has long sung his praises and Tampa might be willing to part with defenceman Mikhail Sergachev. The new team in Utah could probably use a player like Marner.

Even if the Leafs didn't get a stud player back, the cap space could be invaluable to draw better players to support the remaining core players."

Marner might feel that he's not the best fit in Toronto due to the criticism he receives, and he may prefer a change of scenery in a location where he can thrive and live with less scrutiny. Considering he's eligible to sign an extension this summer, a sign-and-trade scenario could be possible. Marner would be a highly sought-after asset for any team.

Marner's situation will undoubtedly be one to watch in the coming months for any further developments.

As seen on markerzoneTwo possible trade destinations emerge for Mitch Marner

Previously on PuckReporter

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POLL
8 MAI \| 1000 ANSWERS Two frontrunners emerge for star forward Mitch Marner Where is the best trade fit for Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner?
Tampa Bay	167	16.7 %
Utah	333	33.3 %
Toronto	167	16.7 %
Other	333	33.3 %
List of polls