Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner is heading into free agency with a plan—and it’s one that might rub a lot of NHL teams the wrong way.
Once again, Marner and his camp are being accused of playing hardball. Back in 2019, the winger was criticized for dragging out negotiations with the Leafs, and now history appears to be repeating itself. This time, the stakes are even higher.
Snubbing the Leafs – At First
According to reports, Marner initially refused to meet with the Maple Leafs regarding a potential extension. He’s now reportedly agreed to a meeting, but only as a “courtesy”—not exactly a sign of strong interest in staying.
However, as NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed on the latest episode of 32 Thoughts, it’s not just the Leafs who are being kept at arm’s length. Marner’s agent, Darren Ferris, is setting the tone for a drawn-out, selective process that could frustrate several teams.
No Decision Coming on July 1st
Friedman shared that Marner’s free agency process might stretch well beyond the traditional July 1st start date. In fact, Marner doesn’t even plan to start meeting with teams until then. He reportedly wants to hold Zoom and in-person meetings with multiple clubs, which could delay any decision by one to two weeks—or more.
“One thing I’m hearing about Marner,” Friedman said, “is that there’s a real possibility this doesn’t get decided on July 1. He wants to begin meetings that day—not end them.”
For teams trying to map out their free agency plans, this puts them in limbo. Some franchises may be forced to wait on Marner’s decision before making moves elsewhere, potentially missing out on other top-tier talent in the process.
Is Marner Worth the Drama?
Critics are already calling Marner’s approach egotistical, pointing to a pattern of diva-like behavior both in Toronto and now on the open market. While no one can fault him for wanting to take his time on such a major career decision, the strategy may alienate teams looking for a more straightforward negotiation.
If his financial or contractual demands are too steep, teams may decide to walk away rather than jump through hoops for a player they see as high-maintenance.
In any case, the hockey world is about to get another lesson in how much sway agents like Darren Ferris—and even family members like Paul Marner—can have in shaping the free agency landscape.
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