Unexpected Suitor: Insider Says East's Low-Scoring Team Will Go Big for Mitch Marner

One of the highest-profile pending unrestricted free agents this summer, Mitch Marner is being linked to the New York Islanders - but would it be a good fit?

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner is playing in the last year of his contract, and his strong year has put him in line for a raise from his current AAV (average annual value) of $10,901,333.

And while there are several potential suitors for him to consider, one NHL writer has linked him to an unusual destination - the New York Islanders.

Anthony La Rocco of The Hockey News has laid out several reasons why Marner could consider the Islanders, starting with his relationship with former Leafs and current Islanders executive Lou Lamoreillo.

Also, look for the Isles to be huge bidders on Mitch Marner if he makes it to market on 7/1. Not saying it's a lock by any means and I get Islanders fans skepticism because of how 7/1 typically treats them, but this situation is a little different.

1. Lamoriello and Marner have a relationship from their time in Toronto.

2. Marner is extremely close with Matt Martin and his kids and family. With Marner even spending sometime on the Island in the summers. Martin will certainly be big on selling Marner on the NYI.

3. Marner has been playing in the shadow of Matthews in Toronto. He certainly would be the guy on the Island, something he may relish.

4. With UBS hosting the All-Star game next year, ownership is going to want positive buzz around the team and for them to be good. From what I understand, the directive is for Lou to make a splash this off-season.

Again, nothing is a guarantee and he very well may end up elsewhere or even back in TO, but if there's ever a time where the Isles land the big fish, it's this summer, with this particular player