Mitch Marner trade likely to occur before July

The NHL is approaching the end of the 2023-2024 season, with the Stanley Cup Final just around the corner. The Florida Panthers have already clinched their spot in the dance, but the Edmonton Oilers and Dallas Stars are still fighting to see who represents the western conference.

NHL insider Frank Seravalli had Marner at the top of his off-season trade board, perhaps not surprising with all the rumours circulating the NHL.

With Marner being eligible to sign an extension soon, some decisions are going to have to be made on his future with the Maple Leafs. Several teams around the NHL have been rumoured to have interest in Marner, but ultimately the process is dictated by his no-move-clause, which he will have to waive if the Leafs trade him to another NHL team.

With the NHL draft immediately following the end of the Stanley Cup Final on June 28th and 29th, it seems like a prime opportunity for NHL teams to pounce on Marner, as they would be eligible to sign him to an extension almost immediately after the trade.

With free agency opening July 1st, many teams will be focusing on the immense talent on the UFA market, meaning a Marner trade would most likely take a back seat, leaving June as the most likely time for him to be moved.

As read on TheLeafsNation
— Why a Mitch Marner trade seems most likely to happen in June