Maple Leafs Explore Sign-and-Trade for Mitch Marner with Golden Knights

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly engaged in discussions regarding a potential sign-and-trade agreement for star forward Mitch Marner with the Vegas Golden Knights. As Marner approaches unrestricted free agency, the negotiations have gained traction, particularly following the conclusion of the NHL draft held in Los Angeles on June 28, 2025.

Mitch Marner, a cornerstone of the Maple Leafs' lineup, is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2025. According to Kevin McGran, a sports reporter for the Toronto Star, the Maple Leafs' general manager, Brad Treliving, acknowledged the team's desire to secure some return for Marner if he decides to leave the franchise he has represented for nine years. "You'd always like to get something," Treliving commented. "That’s not always the case. We’ll see how things unfold."

Reports suggest that Marner has expressed a strong inclination to explore options outside Toronto, prompting the Maple Leafs to consider a proactive approach. The potential inclusion of Vegas center Nicolas Roy in any trade discussions has been highlighted, with Roy currently under contract for two additional seasons at $3 million per season. In the previous season, Roy contributed 15 goals as a depth forward for the Golden Knights.

The urgency for the Maple Leafs arises from the impending free agency period, which commences on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. If Marner signs with another team without a trade agreement in place, the Leafs would receive no compensation for losing one of their top players. Treliving is also focused on retaining restricted free agents Matthew Knies, Nicholas Robertson, and Pontus Holmberg, whose contracts must be addressed before the free agency deadline.

Historically, the period between the NHL draft and free agency is marked by heightened speculation surrounding player movements and contract negotiations. The potential sign-and-trade scenario serves as a means for the Maple Leafs to mitigate the risk of losing Marner without any return. Analysts speculate that the reports may serve as a pressure tactic aimed at persuading Marner to reconsider his stance on leaving Toronto.

The Maple Leafs possess the unique opportunity to offer Marner an eight-year deal, while other teams can only extend a seven-year contract. This could play a pivotal role in Marner's decision-making process, especially considering that the Golden Knights are currently facing salary cap constraints which would necessitate roster adjustments to accommodate Marner's substantial salary demands, estimated at around $12 million annually.

As the situation unfolds, the Maple Leafs are also examining their options regarding other impending free agents, including veterans Max Pacioretty and Steven Lorentz. Treliving has indicated that securing contracts for the team's own free agents remains a priority.

The prospect of a sign-and-trade involving Mitch Marner represents a significant development in the NHL landscape, with potential ramifications for both the Maple Leafs and the Golden Knights. As negotiations advance, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the future trajectories of both franchises in the competitive NHL landscape.