Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner. John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner reportedly rules out six teams in free agency

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated May 23, 2025 7:35 PM ET

The Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks and the Los Angeles Kings are likely to be in on the Mitch Marner sweepstakes. Additionally, Marner will look at the usual suspects that most free agents look at. The only difference is that the Toronto Maple Leafs’ forward will likely rule out every Canadian team.

Pierre LeBrun of TSN offered some insight on Marner’s free agency plans, saying, “In my opinion, it is more likely Mitch Marner tests the market than re-signs in Toronto.” LeBrun added, “I think pretty much it’s a done deal [Mitch Marner] is going to market; very, very likely”.

LeBrun said Marner needs a change of scenery, and the questions will be about how badly he wants to win vs. how much money he wants to make as the biggest ticket free agent of 2025.

Marner to exclude Canadian teams from free agency list

According to Anthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff, the 28-year-old winger is not considering any of the six other Canadian franchises as potential landing spots if he leaves the Maple Leafs this summer. That means Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Montreal are all expected to be off the table.

This development suggests that despite playing his entire career in Toronto and posting a career-high 102 points last season, Marner may be looking for a fresh start away from the intense spotlight that comes with playing in a Canadian market. Whether due to media pressure, tax implications or personal preference, the decision appears to have been made.

The only thing that could change is how the market reacts to him being available, but the expectation is that there will be enough suitors from the teams he prefers that he won’t have to choose a Canadian team.

If Marner does move on, expect non-playoff teams to make the biggest pitches. LeBrun suggests Marner might be the only “apple” available in a market where 10 teams crave an apple and the likelihood of an overpayment is strong.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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