Former NHLer Mike Rupp points out uncertainties possibly contributing to Mitch Marner's departure from Toronto

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Jul 20, 2024 12:00 GMT

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Former NHLer Mike Rupp has pointed out uncertainties that might influence Mitch Marner's potential exit from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Speculation about Marner's potential departure has been circulating for some time now, but nothing has been finalized yet. While some anticipate a trade deal, others believe Marner might remain with the club.

During a recent NHL Network discussion, Mike Rupp delved into the uncertainities surrounding Mitch Marner's future with the Leafs. While acknowledging that the team's management holds the key to the decision, the former NHLer found it hard to envision the Leafs parting ways with the 27-year-old.

Rupp pointed out issues, centering around the constraints of cap space and the impending expiration of Marner's contract. The challenge arises from the likelihood that other teams may offer him a salary that the Leafs may struggle to accommodate within their financial structure.

"The problem, I think, is the cap space or the cap hits that you see right there, and the fact that the contract is expiring. There are going to be other teams out there that will pay him a value that you probably can't fit in. But because of what you've had and the way that you've been built financially, it hasn't worked for you to have that much money tied up in a few players" Rupp said.

Rupp reckoned that the Leafs want to move forward with Mitch Marner and their recent offseason moves. If they believe this is their best shot at winning the Stanley Cup, they might just have to make it work, even if it means dealing with financial constraints.

Mitch Marner opens up about his future in Toronto amid rumors

Despite the rumors and speculation, Marner has expressed his aspiration to continue his future in Toronto. Speaking about his future in an interview with NHL.com, the forward said:

"That would be a goal," Marner said. "I've expressed my love for this place, this city. Obviously, I've grown up here. We'll start thinking about that now and try to figure something out."

Mitch Marner is entering the final year of a six-year, $65.358 million contract inked with the Leafs in 2019. Notably, he has a no-movement clause in his contract, and reports suggest that he could consider waiving it if a contract extension is not imminent before the start of the season and the player decides to move on.