Top Insider claims Mitch Marner will stick with Toronto Maple Leafs for "minimum $12 (million) a year" 

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Sep 17, 2024 07:08 GMT

Mitch Marner is in the final year of his $65.41 million contract. He is expected to stay with the Toronto Maple Leafs after the 2024-25 season, despite earlier rumors of him leaving.

The Fourth Period's Dave Pagnotta shared his views on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio. When asked if Marner would still be with the Maple Leafs at the start of the 2025-26 season, the NHL Insider said (via NHLRumors.com):

"It should still be Toronto."

He pointed out that Marner, despite criticism from some Toronto fans, is a top player who gets more recognition outside the market. Pagnotta also noted that Marner has been on pace for over 90 points in the last three seasons and is expected to reach 100 points this year if he stays healthy.

Pagnotta further explained that the Leafs’ decision on Marner will depend on how they build their team around key players like Auston Matthews and John Tavares. Since Tavares's contract is ending soon, the team will need to manage their salary cap carefully. Although the Leafs have considered trading Marner, Pagnotta now thinks it’s more likely he will stay:

"I have started to lean a lot more DB towards Mitch sticking around. But they better pay them. And it’s going to be 13. 12, let’s say minimum $12 [million] a year,” Pagnotta said.

The next few weeks will be important for the Leafs as they decide on Marner’s contract extension. Pagnotta mentioned that the team is in a “wait-and-see” mode for now. They will likely assess Marner’s performance this season before making any decisions. If talks continue into the season, Mitch Marner's agent, Darren Ferris, might push to delay negotiations until the end of the season to avoid any potential distractions.

Toronto Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner pays tribute to Greg Harden

On Saturday, Mitch Marner paid tribute to Greg Harden, a well-known life coach from the University of Michigan. Harden passed away on Friday after complications from recent surgery. He had worked with the Toronto Maple Leafs for three seasons. Marner shared on Instagram:

"You were one of a kind my friend, you will be missed by many. Rest easy."

The Maple Leafs shared a statement of their own on X/Twitter:

"Greg was a man with perpetual positivity. He was a source of strength, wisdom, and unwavering support for our entire organization. Our deepest condolences go out to Greg’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed."

Harden was known for his positivity and support, helping many athletes including Tom Brady and Michael Phelps.