Maple Leafs' Mitch Marner Predicted to Land With Surprising West Team

As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their second-round playoff series, the front office is preparing for an active offseason. Toronto has a few crucial players entering free agency, and the team is going to have some tough decisions to make.

One of those players is star Mitch Marner, and many around the NHL don't see him returning to Toronto. Marner has been with the Maple Leafs for his entire career, but could be looking for a change.

NHL writer Lyle Richardson put together some surprising landing spots for upcoming free agents, and Marner made the list. The prediction has Marner landing with the Utah Mammoth in free agency.

"They lack a star like Marner who can take them to the next level. He'd be a terrific fit offensively on their top line, while his defensive skills would bolster their penalty kill. Marner would instantly become the face of the franchise, making them more marketable."

"The Mammoth also has plenty of cap space to make Marner one of the league's highest-paid players. They have $22.3 million in projected salary-cap space for 2025-26, with 19 active players (including their core players) under contract."

Marner scored 27 goals and 75 assists this past season for Toronto, showing his strong production for the team. If the Mammoth could add him, it could be a strong signing for a team looking to establish itself in a new market.

The Maple Leafs star may want to join a more established team, but the Mammoth could be a good option. Marner could get to be the guy for Utah, and would have the challenge of bringing this franchise to a new level.

It remains to be seen what Marner wants in free agency, but for now, he is focused on helping Toronto go after the Stanley Cup.