Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner isn’t close to making a decision about his future in Toronto, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman.
The talented forward’s contract situation has been one of the biggest stories hanging over the Leafs this season.
“Unless there’s something going on that I’m not seeing right now, which is always possible, I don’t sense Mitch Marner is anywhere close to making a decision,” Friedman said about the upcoming free agency decision.
It’s a situation that’s got Leafs fans on edge. Marner has been one of Toronto’s most dynamic players since breaking into the league, and losing him would leave a massive hole in their lineup.
The Maple Leafs have made it clear they want to keep their homegrown star. But with the salary cap always looming large, it’s not going to be a simple negotiation.
Marner’s next contract could easily make him one of the NHL’s highest-paid players. He’s earned that consideration with his consistent point production and playmaking ability.
The clock is ticking though. July 1st – when free agency opens – isn’t that far away, and Toronto needs to know where they stand with their star forward.
For now, both sides seem content to take their time with such an important decision. But as summer approaches, the pressure to reach an agreement will only intensify.
