Hostility Between Marner and Leafs Could Spark Free Agency Move

Toronto, Canada – Former NHL player Paul Bissonnette, now a commentator, suggested that tension between star winger Mitch Marner and the Toronto Maple Leafs may lead to Marner exploring free agency this summer.

During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Bissonnette, known as BizNasty, discussed the implications of recent team dynamics, especially in light of the Pittsburgh Penguins firing longtime coach Mike Sullivan.

Bissonnette pointed out that Marner’s future with the Maple Leafs remains uncertain, particularly after the team attempted to trade him for Mikko Rantanen during the trade deadline. “There’s a little hostility between the Maple Leafs and Marner,” Bissonnette noted. “They were willing to part ways with him, even though he had a 100-point season.”

Marner recently completed his first 100-point season in the NHL, finishing with 27 goals and 75 assists over 81 games. Despite his excellent performance, Bissonnette emphasized there are questions surrounding Marner’s playoff success, stating, “The book is still out on Mitch Marner as far as playoff performance.”

As Marner heads into free agency, Bissonnette estimates he could command around $14 million annually on the open market, particularly with connections to Kyle Dubas, the former Maple Leafs GM now leading the Penguins.

Marner is currently in the midst of a playoff series against the Ottawa Senators, where the Leafs lead 3-1. On Tuesday night, the two teams will meet for Game 5, with Toronto looking to secure a spot in the second round.