Mitch Marner, a forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has found himself at the center of trade speculation, with one proposal suggesting a move to the Detroit Red Wings.
As Marner enters the final year of his six-year, $65.4 million contract, he has become a prime trade target, especially given the Maple Leafs’ struggles in the playoffs. The trade discussion gained traction through a new tool on the PuckPedia website called PuckGM, which allows users to create hypothetical trades. One user put forth a significant deal that would send Marner to the Red Wings.
Marner’s contract situation has fueled these rumors, particularly after the Maple Leafs’ recent playoff exits. With his contract expiring, many believe the team may consider bold moves to reshape their roster.
The Red Wings have made several notable acquisitions recently. They obtained Gage Alexander from Anaheim in exchange for Robby Fabbri and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2025. Additionally, Detroit secured a second-round draft pick in the upcoming draft along with forward prospect Jesse Kiiskinen by trading defensive prospect Andrew Gibson to Nashville.
These moves reflect the Red Wings’ strategy to enhance their roster and build for the future.
Mitch Marner
Maple Leafs receive
Lucas Raymond
Jonatan Berggren
William Wallinder
Second-round pick in 2025
The suggested trade would be a significant move, but it appears beneficial for both teams involved. The Detroit Red Wings would gain a genuine superstar in Mitch Marner, who could significantly contribute to their young roster as they aim for a playoff spot.
On the other hand, the Toronto Maple Leafs would acquire Lucas Raymond, a 22-year-old forward selected fourth overall by the Red Wings in the 2020 draft. However, Raymond is a restricted free agent and has yet to finalize a contract extension.
In addition to Raymond, Toronto would receive Jonatan Berggren, a 24-year-old who is on the fringes of the NHL and could serve as a bottom-six forward for the Maple Leafs. They would also add William Wallinder, a defenseman drafted in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft, who is projected to be a second or third-pairing player in the NHL.
To complete the trade, the Maple Leafs would also obtain a second-round pick. However, for the deal to proceed, it would likely require Marner to agree to a contract extension, ensuring his long-term commitment to the Red Wings.
The Red Wings have not yet finalized a contract with Lucas Raymond.
The Red Wings have not yet signed restricted free agent Lucas Raymond to an extension, which is causing some concern among fans.
However, Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde has expressed that he is not worried about the delay in finalizing the deal.
“I’m not concerned,” Lalonde stated. “This is all part of the process. I have some experience with RFAs, and it’s just how things go.”
Last season, Raymond played in all 82 games, scoring 31 goals and providing 41 assists for a total of 72 points. It was a standout year for him, and Lalonde noted that Raymond significantly transformed his game.
“He discovered something during the offseason last year, and when he returned, he looked like a completely different athlete,” Lalonde remarked. “Part of that was his natural maturation — he’s still quite young, and his body has developed. The key now is to build on what he achieved last year.”
Mitch Marner is optimistic about his long-term future with the Toronto Maple Leafs. With only one year remaining on his current contract, he has expressed a strong desire to extend his stay with the team. In a recent interview, Marner stated, “That would be a goal. I’ve shared my love for this place and city. We’ll start thinking about that now and try to work something out.”
As he approaches unrestricted free agency next summer, Marner’s contract negotiations could follow a similar path to those of teammates William Nylander and Auston Matthews, who navigated their own extensions in different ways. Notably, Marner has a full no-movement clause, meaning any potential trade would require his approval.
Despite the disappointment of another early playoff exit, Marner remains committed to the team and believes in their core group’s potential to succeed in the postseason. He appreciates the support from the Toronto fan base, highlighting the unique connection players have with the city.
Mitch Marner was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs as the fourth overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, marking a significant moment for the player and his hometown team.
Since he is playing for his local team, Marner has expressed a strong desire to sign a contract extension with the Maple Leafs.
“That would be a goal. I’ve shared my affection for this city and this place. Growing up here has been significant for me. We’ll begin discussing that now and work towards a solution… It truly means a lot to me,” Marner stated to the media on May 6.
Last season, he achieved impressive stats, scoring 26 goals and providing 59 assists for a total of 85 points in 69 games.
Leave a Reply