One thing is certain: Mitch Marner is staying put.
Last week, the superstar forward agreed to terms with the Toronto Maple Leafs on a new six-year deal worth $10.893 million annually – meaning his long, drawn-out summer of negotiations came to a close.
But during that period of stalemates and squabbles, it's no surprise to hear rival NHL teams were circling the Leafs and GM Kyle Dubas. Would the two parties, seemingly far apart all summer, be able to get something done before training camp – or would the Leafs have to consider trading Marner, arguably their top forward?
And in a summer where we saw the first NHL offer sheet in years (Montreal tendering to Carolina's Sebastian Aho, which was matched), it's believed Marner was a prime target as well. According to Marner's agent, Darren Ferris, two NHL teams approached him about signing Marner to an offer sheet – but both were declined.
Matthew Barnaby expanded on that, saying the Blue Jackets were one of the two teams who had expressed interest.
From what I was told a while ago the 2 offer sheets to Marner were Minny and Columbus....Wanted to be a Leaf
— Matthew Barnaby (@MattBarnaby3636) September 16, 2019
Now, there's a distinct contextual difference to note here: Marner did not sign either offer sheet – he doesn't have to. Teams can approach players/agents about the idea of signing an offer sheet, but it's up to the player to agree to terms. Marner clearly wanted to be in Toronto, which is why he was willing to wait.
Im exactly where I want to be, in front of the greatest hockey fans in the world, proudly continuing the tradition with the @MapleLeafs. See you soon.
— Mitchell Marner (@Marner93) September 14, 2019
It would've had to be a significant offer from Jarmo Kekalainen to get Ferris and Marner to consider, but now it's a moot point as Marner has re-signed in Toronto. Nonetheless, the fact that the Blue Jackets had interest is another sign of Kekalainen's willingness to explore any and all avenues to improve his team.
