Breaking: tensions rise as Maple Leafs urged to draw line with Mitch Marner

Former NHLer advises Toronto to play hardball, TSN’s Dreger weighs in

A former NHL player has advised the Toronto Maple Leafs to make a tough stance with pending restricted free agent (RFA) Mitch Marner, as the winger’s future with the team remains uncertain.

“Tell ’em to f**k off,” former Leaf and Bruins tough guy Manchester advises Toronto.

Toronto’s tough decision looms large

The Maple Leafs find themselves in a precarious position, with Marner seeking a long-term, big-money contract, and the team trying to balance its salary cap.

• Marner is rumored to be seeking an 8-year, $12 million per year deal, according to TSN’s Darren Dreger.
• With Auston Matthews already earning $11.634M per year, accommodating Marner’s demands may strain the Leafs’ cap space.
• Dreger also notes that the Leafs plan to explore trade options if Marner insists on testing the market this offseason.

Dreger chimes in on Marner’s potential departure

“Marner is going to go to free agency, Leafs are going to try to reinvest that money,” said Dreger on TSN.

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FAQs

What could the Leafs do with Marner’s cap space if he leaves?

If Marner leaves via free agency or trade, Toronto could utilize his cap space to target other free agents or address holes in its roster through trades.

Could Marner return to Toronto on a shorter-term deal?

It’s possible, but Marner has reportedly insisted on a long-term contract, which may hinder negotiations with the Leafs.

Takeaways and next steps

As the Maple Leafs face a pivotal offseason, Marner’s future remains in limbo. Toronto must now decide whether to hold firm on its offer or risk losing one of the league’s premier wingers. Stay tuned to 247sports.news for more updates on this breaking story.

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