The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a potentially transformative offseason, with key questions surrounding the futures of Mitch Marner and John Tavares, and prospect Roni Hirvonen's departure to Finland.

The Marner Domino

Mitch Marner's future with the Maple Leafs is increasingly uncertain. Recent reports suggest that his camp is "not engaged" with the team, signaling a likely departure when he becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1st. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted on the "32 Thoughts Podcast" that Marner is expected to test the market and is unlikely to return to Toronto. Several teams, including the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, and Vegas Golden Knights, are reportedly interested in acquiring the star winger. Friedman also mentioned the possibility of Marner taking his time to choose his next team, potentially setting up meetings with interested clubs in early July. Instead of signing a max-term seven-year contract, Marner may opt for a shorter four-year deal.

The Maple Leafs may prefer to trade Marner to a Western Conference team. Teams like the Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, Seattle Kraken, or Calgary Flames could be possible options. While Marner hasn't requested a trade and his agent denies seeking one, the Maple Leafs may prefer to trade him out of the Eastern Conference.

With Marner potentially leaving via free agency, the Maple Leafs will need to find a way to replace his offensive production. While the free agent market has limited options, the Maple Leafs may explore the trade route to fill the void in their top-six forwards. One potential target could be Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights, with a sign-and-trade being a possible scenario. Other options mentioned include Martin Necas.

Tavares's Future in Toronto

John Tavares's future with the Maple Leafs is also uncertain as his seven-year, $77 million contract has expired. As an unrestricted free agent, Tavares could explore opportunities with other teams. The Minnesota Wild have been mentioned as a potential landing spot, with NHL insider Joe Smith suggesting that Tavares could be a good fit for the team's needs up the middle.

Despite the possibility of joining another team, there seems to be mutual interest between Tavares and the Maple Leafs in continuing their partnership. Discussions are ongoing, but the specifics of his salary and contract terms remain unresolved. Some analysts speculate that Tavares might be willing to take a significant pay cut to remain in Toronto, potentially signing a long-term extension at a lower average annual value. Chris Johnston suggested Tavares could sign a deal similar to Yanni Gourde's, but with a higher AAV. A five-year deal worth $27.5 million could be a reasonable option, allowing him to compete and potentially retire with his hometown team.

Hirvonen Returns to Finland

Maple Leafs prospect Roni Hirvonen has signed a one-year contract with Kärpät of the Finnish Liiga, signaling his departure from the AHL's Toronto Marlies. Hirvonen, a second-round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, has been a consistent performer in both Finland and the AHL but hasn't shown significant offensive progression.

Hirvonen's decision to return to Finland may be driven by a desire for more consistent playing time and an opportunity to further develop his two-way game in a familiar environment. Despite his departure, the Maple Leafs can retain his NHL signing rights by issuing him a qualifying offer. While Hirvonen's future with the Maple Leafs remains uncertain, a return to North America is possible after rebuilding his stock in Finland.