Mitch Marner Reportedly Asked to Waive Trade Protection for Carolina Hurricanes
Before the Carolina Hurricanes dealt Mikko Rantanen to the Dallas Stars, they reportedly engaged in discussions with the Toronto Maple Leafs about acquiring winger Mitch Marner.
According to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, the Maple Leafs reached out to Marner to see if he would be willing to waive his no-movement clause. Marner, who is in the final year of a six-year, $10.903 million AAV contract, reportedly declined the request.
Friedman explained, “The Hurricanes initially asked for Mitch Marner in return for Rantanen. Because it was Rantanen, the Leafs had to give it serious consideration. They told Marner they hoped to sign him, but in this instance, they had to ask. As expected, Marner declined, reaffirming his wish to stay.”
While it would have been a notable move for Carolina to add another top-tier right winger, the trade never materialized.
Following a 7-4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday, the Toronto media asked Marner about the potential move. He reiterated his commitment to the Maple Leafs.
“I’m here to play hockey with this team,” Marner said. “I want to be with this team, I want to play with this team. I wasn’t focused on the trade talks. I had a feeling something might happen, but I’m here to play with this team.”
When asked if he sees himself staying with the Leafs next season, Marner kept it vague, stating, “I’m not going to get into contract stuff. I’ve been very grateful and I’ve loved my time being a Leaf. That’s where I’ll leave it.”
The 28-year-old Marner has 21 goals and 79 points in 62 games this season, ranking sixth in the NHL for scoring. Since the 2021-22 season, he ranks eighth in total league scoring with 112 goals and 360 points.
It’s clear the Hurricanes view Marner as a valuable asset, making him a potential target in free agency this offseason. Keep an eye on his future in the coming months.
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