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Elliotte Friedman Weighs In On Mitch Marner’s Uncertain Maple Leafs Future

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated May 22, 2025 7:57 AM ET

Mitch Marner’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs remains unresolved, but Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman believes both sides are facing a pivotal offseason that could lead to separation.

Speaking on Wednesday's episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Friedman urged fans not to read too much into Marner’s vague answers during Tuesday’s media availability.

Marner repeatedly said the loss was “still so fresh” and that he hadn’t yet processed what comes next. Friedman interpreted that as a natural response, not a strategic one.

"I think in that moment, the last thing Mitch Marner wants to do is pour gasoline on the fire," Friedman said. "I wouldn’t jump to conclusions based on anything he said."

32 Thoughts Wednesday playoff reaction, news, information and analysis pod.

Links to your preferred platform, here: https://t.co/io7Mr1QEpm Enjoy!
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) May 21, 2025

Still, Friedman acknowledged the two key obstacles in the way of Marner return to Toronto once his deal effectively ends on July 1: a lack of progress on contract talks throughout the season and the possibility that Marner himself decides it’s time to move on.

"Does Marner think it’s time?" Friedman said. "And I really do believe that the Maple Leafs recognize how big a loss he will be, because he’s not going to be easy to replace.

"But if you can’t reach an agreement, and he and his family feel it’s time, then that’s where we’re going to be."

Friedman also cautioned against any decisions made in the immediate aftermath of a crushing playoff defeat, whether those are made by Marner or Toronto.

"You shouldn’t make life decisions in the aftermath of something as hard as a defeat as that," Friedman said.

Marner posted 102 points in 81 games this season and added 13 points in 13 playoff games.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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