NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs at Vegas Golden Knights - Source: Imagn — NHL insider suggests a potential trade for forward Mitch Marner (Source: Imagn)

NHL analyst Anthony LaRocco floats blockbuster trade involving Maple Leafs’ Mitch Marner and $1.9 billion franchise

Modified Mar 16, 2025 17:49 GMT

A trade rumor is gaining attention about Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner. NHL writer Anthony LaRocco of "The Hockey News" suggested that the New York Islanders could be serious bidders if Marner becomes available this summer. The Islanders, valued at $1.9 billion (Forbes, December 2024), could afford to make a big move.

"Also, look for the #Isles to be huge bidders on Mitch Marner if he makes it to market on 7/1. Not saying it’s a lock by any means and I get Islanders fans skepticism because of how 7/1 typically treats them, but this situation is a little different," LaRocco tweeted on Sunday.

LaRocco gave several reasons why the Islanders might want Marner. General manager Lou Lamoriello worked with him in Toronto. Marner is also close friends with Islanders forward Matt Martin and often spends summers on Long Island. With UBS Arena hosting the 2025 NHL All-Star Game, the Islanders’ owners want to create excitement around the team. Marner would also be a top player in New York, unlike in Toronto where Auston Matthews gets more attention.

"Again, nothing is a guarantee, and he very well may end up elsewhere or even back in TO, but if there’s ever a time where the Isles land the big fish, it’s this summer, with this particular player," LaRocco tweeted.

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Marner is having a strong season, with 21 goals and 59 assists in 65 games, totaling 80 points. He averages 21:32 of ice time per game. His performance often dips in high-pressure games, especially in the playoffs.

Marner is in the fifth year of his six-year, $65.4 million contract, which ends after the 2024-25 season.

Mitch Marner avoided the media when asked about his contract with the Leafs

Mitch Marner did not answer regarding his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs last week. He told Sportsnet's Luke Fox that he was focused on playing with the team and did not focus on the Carolina Hurricanes rumors.

“I’m here to play hockey with this team, like I said, and I’m focused with this team. And that’s what I can tell you.” Marner said on March 8.

Marner also refused to discuss contract talks before his deal ends on July 1.

“Like I talked to you guys, man, I’m not gonna get into any of this contract stuff,” Marner said. “I’ve been very grateful, and I’ve loved my time being a Leaf. So, I’ll leave it with you guys.”

Mitch Marner's agent, Darren Ferris, prioritizes taking players to free agency for better deals.

About the author

Ankit is an NHL journalist at Sportskeeda with over 3 years of experience in the writing industry. He has expertise in sports, product, and travel content writing. His interest in ice hockey was piqued after watching Sidney Crosby play and he has been passionately following the game since then. Ankit admires Crosby’s personality and hockey IQ, and when he crossed the 1,500 points tally, Ankit was among the biggest fans to celebrate the occasion.

An Edmonton Oilers fan because of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Ankit also admires the Pittsburgh Penguins due to Crosby and the Colorado Avalanche for Nathan MacKinnon. He is also a fan of Wayne Gretzky and Bobby Orr.

Holding a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Language, Ankit believes his education has helped him develop a knack for presenting information in a precise and compelling manner. He only sources information from credible avenues and trusted people from his network for his articles.

When he is not watching or writing about the NHL, Ankit loves listening to music and reading books.

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