Toronto Maple Leafs star forward Mitch Marner has been the center of trade speculation, though no deal has materialized so far.
Entering the final year of his six-year, $65.41 million contract signed in 2019, Marner has featured in numerous trade rumors. Despite this, he remains with the Maple Leafs, and all indications suggest he will continue with the team.
However, if Toronto does opt to trade Marner, NHL Network analyst Stu Grimson believes the return could be substantial.
“What could the Maple Leafs expect in return for Marner?”
Should the Leafs decide to move Marner, they could receive a significant return for the 28-year-old, even though his contract expires after the next season. Grimson predicts a notable return, including a solid, established NHL player, as well as a mix of picks and prospects.
“Expect a rich return,” Grimson stated. “I believe the trade will involve a strong impact player, and possibly a combination of draft picks and prospects.”
Given Marner’s status as one of the NHL’s top players, it’s no surprise that the Maple Leafs would garner considerable assets for him. Last season, Marner tallied 26 goals and 59 assists for 85 points in 69 games.
**Analyst Suggests Maple Leafs Would Seek Gritty Forward in Trade**
If the Leafs do trade Marner, Grimson suggests they would aim to acquire a gritty forward who can contribute offensively. He highlights Florida Panthers’ Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett as ideal targets, although trading either seems unlikely. Grimson believes such a player would significantly benefit Toronto.
“The Leafs value a gritty presence in their top six who can also produce offensively,” Grimson explained. “A player like that could provide the necessary element to push the team forward.”
The Maple Leafs previously had Michael Bunting, who played a similar role but lacked the offensive skill and often committed penalties, unlike Tkachuk and Bennett.
Marner’s Desire to Stay in Toronto
Despite ongoing trade rumors, Marner has expressed a strong desire to stay with the Maple Leafs. Eligible for a contract extension as of July 1, Marner has yet to sign but made it clear he wants to remain with his hometown team during a media session on May 6.
“That’s definitely a goal of mine. I’ve expressed my love for this place and this city. I grew up here, and I want to figure something out,” Marner said.
Marner also reflected on the deep connection between the team and its fans, comparing it to the affection shown to the Toronto Raptors’ players who won the 2019 NBA Championship.
Marner has played his entire eight-year NHL career with the Maple Leafs.