Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner Can Become Highest-Paid Player, But There's A Catch

Marner, 28, will enter unrestricted free agency on July 1 after completing his six-year, $65.41 million contract. 

"I say, what Mitch Marner wants? What does he want?" Colaiacovo said on the "First Up" podcast. "Does he want to be the highest-paid player in the NHL? Because he can do that."

Colaiacovo emphasized the financial crossroads facing both player and franchise.

"Does he want to get paid a nice, handsome raise in his next contract? Yeah, I think he will," Colaiacovo said. "But if he wants to be the highest-paid player in the league, I’m telling you right now, he will be."

Colaiacovo warned, however, that securing a record-breaking deal may not align with staying in Toronto. The Leafs are projected to have $26.8 million in cap space.

"It’s hard to be on a winning team while being the highest-paid player," Colaiacovo said. "Does he want to be part of a winning team and have both? Or does he love being a Maple Leaf and love being at home, and love being around his family, and love the fact that his newborn son can be around his family growing up?"

Marner, meanwhile, has not committed to re-signing in Toronto. At the team’s end-of-season media session, he said the moment was still too fresh for decisions.

"I’ve always loved my time here," Marner said. "I loved being here. I’ve been so grateful. I haven’t thought about anything going forward and future-wise."

Ultimately, Colaiacovo concluded that the decision now rests entirely with Marner.

"These are all decisions he needs to make," Colaiacovo said. "And ultimately, it’s going to come down to what he wants."