Maple Leafs Predicted to Lose $65 Million Star to Western Conference Power

The Toronto Maple Leafs suffered a bitter playoff exit to end last season, and could have more pain coming this offseason.

After being eliminated by the Florida Panthers in the second round of the NHL playoffs, the Maple Leafs are expected to lose star player Mitch Marner as he hits free agency. Marner reached the end of his six-year, $65.4 million contract and is expected to move on to a new NHL home.

Chris Bengek of CBS Sports called Marner "the crown jewel of the 2025 free agency class" and noted that his stock is at an all-time high.

"The star center picked the perfect time to set a new career-high in points (102) as he tallied 27 goals and 75 assists to pace the Maple Leafs," Bengel wrote. "Marner is a playmaker that is going to improve an NHL franchise's top line in a big way next season and beyond."

Bengel predicted that Marner will get the biggest payday of all free agents, suggesting the Las Vegas Golden Knights will emerge as the sweepstakes winner. 

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner (16) adjusts his helmet after a play against the Florida Panthers during the first period of game seven of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at...

John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

"The Mammoth are attempting to build off of a strong first season in Salt Lake City and create excitement in a new market," Bengel wrote. "However, it's hard to expect the Golden Knights not doing whatever they can to land a player of Marner's caliber. This is a franchise that always swings for the fences and they'll move money to make things work."

The Knights could use Marner as they look to remain in Stanley Cup contention. Las Vegas lost to the Edmonton Oilers in the second round of the playoffs this season.