The Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating a crucial offseason with several key decisions looming that will shape the team's future. Among the most pressing issues are the potential offers for Mitch Marner, ongoing contract talks with veteran John Tavares, and the re-signing of forward Pontus Holmberg.
Mitch Marner, a cornerstone of the Maple Leafs' offense, is reportedly drawing significant interest from several teams. With the salary cap expected to rise, Marner is in line for a substantial raise from his current $10.93 million AAV contract. According to reports, at least four non-playoff teams—the Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Utah Mammoth—are prepared to offer Marner a "monster" contract, potentially making him the highest-paid player in the NHL with offers exceeding $14 million per season. These teams, possessing ample cap space, are eager to add a marquee player to accelerate their rebuilding efforts.
However, there's also speculation linking Marner to playoff contenders like the Vegas Golden Knights, Florida Panthers, and Los Angeles Kings. This raises the question of Marner's priorities: Is he seeking a Stanley Cup, or is he more enticed by a potentially record-breaking payday from a rebuilding team? The Maple Leafs face a tough decision. Can they afford to retain Marner at such a high price, especially with Auston Matthews already locked into a $13.25 million AAV contract? Some analysts argue that the Leafs should consider trading Marner to acquire a top-tier defenseman or goaltender, addressing other critical needs within the team. The decision hinges on whether Marner can prove himself as a top playoff performer. If he can lead the team to a Stanley Cup, then perhaps a "Brinks truck" offer is warranted.
Veteran forward John Tavares is also a key focus this offseason as he and the Maple Leafs engage in contract negotiations. Tavares, who will turn 35 before the next season begins, is coming off a strong year, having scored 35 goals. He has expressed optimism about returning to Toronto, emphasizing his desire to finish his career with the team. However, finding a mutually agreeable contract remains a challenge. While Tavares is unlikely to take a significant discount, he may need to accept a deal that reflects his age and potential role.
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic noted that there's mutual interest in getting a deal done, but finding that "sweet spot on a fair deal isn't quite there yet." The idea that Tavares might sign for a bargain $5 million AAV seems unlikely, with the final number expected to be higher. The Maple Leafs need a contract that allows them flexibility to address other needs in the lineup. Tavares's contributions, particularly on the power play and in faceoffs, remain valuable. However, the Leafs must also consider the need to integrate more speed and physicality into their game, qualities that aren't necessarily Tavares's strengths.
In a less publicized but still significant move, the Maple Leafs re-signed forward Pontus Holmberg to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $800,000. The 24-year-old Swede played 37 regular-season games with the Maple Leafs in the 2022-23 season, recording 13 points (five goals, eight assists). He also had a productive stint with the Toronto Marlies (AHL), scoring 22 points in 36 games. Holmberg's versatility and potential in the bottom-six forward group make him a valuable asset for the Leafs. He can play at any forward position, providing flexibility for the coaching staff. His contract is also team-friendly, providing value without significantly impacting the salary cap.
Holmberg showed promise early in the 2022-23 season, earning a regular spot in the lineup as a solid fourth-line center. He appears ready to be a regular NHL player and could move up in the lineup when needed.
