Maple Leafs' Rival Could 'Take a Stab' at Mitch Marner in 'Chaotic' Move

Marek raised the possibility of the Ottawa Senators pursuing Marner in free agency, suggesting it would create "chaotic" implications given the rivalry with Toronto.

Pagnotta acknowledged the scenario could actually be more realistic than it seems on paper.

"I mean, look, it's twofold," Pagnotta said. "One, you get the best player in the free agent market that just scored 102 points, and (two) you get him the hell out of Toronto. 

"It's a double win for the Sens. I wouldn't be surprised if they take a stab."

Pagnotta said Ottawa making a bid wouldn't surprise him.

"I think there are going to be a lot of teams that are going to call up as soon as they have that opportunity to and say, We’re serious about this," Pagnotta said. "It wouldn’t shock me if it’s Ottawa."

For what it's worth, Pagnotta reported at the end of May that Toronto may explore trading Marner’s rights for a draft pick before July 1.

"Could the Leafs trade (Marner's negotiating) rights for a draft pick to give a team a headstart in contract negotiations?" Pagnotta said. "That seems more plausible."

Marner, who posted a career-high 102 points this season, is set to hit free agency after completing a six-year, $65.4 million contract with Toronto.