Atlantic Division Team Emerging as Shocking Frontrunner for Mitch Marner Per New Report

However, with there still being weeks to go until the NHL Draft and free agency, things could change quickly with Marner's situation, with many teams still expect to contend to give him upwards of $13 million in free agency.

Now, a new report from Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects has revealed the team that is firming as the favourite to land Marner, and shockingly, it could be one of their biggest rivals in the Florida Panthers.

There's real smoke that the Florida Panthers could be gearing up to make a run at Marner.

The Panthers, for their credit, are known for their aggressive swings. And this would certainly fall under that category. In this world, you'd have to imagine that Sam Bennett would not be retained and Anton Lundell would be elevated to the second-line centre role.

Marner moves out of the pressure cooker of Toronto to the sunny disposition of Florida with its tax-free status, immaculate vibes, and constant Cup contention.

Obviously, it's easy to see why he'd be interested in Florida, as they've eliminated Toronto many times in recent years, and with good weather and less pressure, it would be an obvious move for Marner.

Only time will tell whether or not he'd want to join a former rival, but if the interest is as strong as reported, don't be surprised to see Florida try and land Marner, even if that means parting with top names like Sam Bennett and/or Brad Marchand.