Toronto Maple Leafs winger Mitch Marner is set to be one of the most sought-after names in the 2025 NHL free agent class. After completing a six-year, $65 million deal, Marner’s next contract decision is drawing considerable speculation.
Notably, Marner is reportedly considering an unconventional approach to free agency—potentially avoiding a standard long-term deal in favor of a shorter one. According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, multiple NHL teams believe Marner may prefer a short-term agreement that positions him to benefit from rising league revenues in the near future.
Short-Term Deal Offers Flexibility, But Playoff Struggles Cloud Marner’s Long-Term Outlook
LeBrun reports that Marner is mulling a two-year contract in the range of $12 to $13 million per year. This strategy could allow him to re-enter the market when the NHL’s salary cap, expected to exceed $113 million, gives players more financial leverage.
By taking this path, Marner would aim to maximize his career earnings while retaining flexibility. However, such a strategy also introduces risk, particularly around injury or performance decline, which could significantly impact his value at age 30.
Mitch Marner (NHL)While Marner has been consistently productive in the regular season—averaging over a point per game throughout his previous contract—his postseason record continues to be a source of criticism.
Toronto’s playoff disappointments have led many to question whether the team should consider parting ways with its current core. Marner’s perceived underperformance in the playoffs may provide further justification for the Leafs to entertain moving on as they pursue a roster overhaul.
Teams Show Interest, But Marner’s Short-Term Gamble Carries High Stakes and Risk
In his column, LeBrun speculated on several teams that could pursue Marner if he hits the open market. The Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings were named as realistic contenders, while the Dallas Stars were mentioned as a surprising but unlikely suitor. Despite their interest, Dallas’ cap constraints—especially after re-signing Mikko Rantanen—make them a long shot to afford Marner without major roster adjustments.
Marner’s potential decision to sign a short-term deal would represent a calculated bet on his continued health and performance. At age 28, he would be 30 by the time he re-enters free agency, still within his prime but closer to the age when teams start to evaluate long-term risk more critically.
If he stays healthy and maintains his elite production, the payoff could be massive under a higher salary cap. However, the decision is not without significant risk, making this an intriguing storyline as NHL free agency approaches.
