After another disappointing performance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Mitch Marner appears to be on the way out of Toronto, and only a few weeks into the off-season for the team, speculation is running rampant. While it's expected the team will pursue a deal, renowned NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has now given insight into the situation and the thinking of the team and GM Brad Treliving.
According to Freidman, Toronto believe Marner could thrive in a quieter market, but after years of playoff failure, they simply need to bite the bullet and move on. Sure, they won't move him for nothing, but whether a deal is made in the next month or in the middle of the season, Marner will likely be on his way out, and the return should be solid for the Maple Leafs.