Mitch Marner Linked to Stanley Cup Contender Ahead of Free Agency

Mitch Marner and the Toronto Maple Leafs were eliminated before reaching the Eastern Conference Final yet again following a 6-1 blowout loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 7 on Sunday night.

Marner had the best regular season of his career, topping 100 points (102) for the first time in his nine-year NHL run. He added 13 more points in the postseason, with two goals and 11 assists.

Now, the 2015 No. 4 overall pick is set to hit free agency this offseason, as his six-year deal with a $10.903 million AAV comes to an end. Many are wondering what the future holds for him, as the core group of Marner, Auston Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares has repeatedly failed to deliver in the playoffs when it matters most.

Following the game, Marner was asked about his future but declined to address it for now.

"I don’t have any thoughts on that right now," the 28-year-old said. "I mean, pretty devastated with what just happened."

Adam Herman of Bleacher Report is already looking ahead, naming several possible landing spots for Marner. Among them are the Carolina Hurricanes, who are set to face the Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final.

Herman pointed to the Hurricanes needing a "difference-maker," something they have lacked over the last few postseasons.

"The Hurricanes are a well-built team the best depth in the NHL and an unshakeable structure," Herman said. "What has held them back in past postseasons was the lack of a difference-maker who could create goals during stalemates."

Herman also looked at the potential move from Marner’s perspective, noting the intense media attention and pressure that comes with playing in Toronto. Even Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk admitted he feels bad for Leafs players having to deal with it.

"Carolina could appeal to Marner for a few reasons," Herman added. "The pressure won't be what it is in Toronto but he'd join a bona fide contender. Whereas in Toronto he's getting heat for his finesse game, his style of play would be a breath of fresh air in a Carolina system that breeds discipline and physicality but needs more creative star power."