### Major Changes Loom for Toronto Maple Leafs as Star Players Approach Free Agency As the NHL offseason approaches, significant changes are anticipated for the Toronto Maple Leafs, particularly concerning star players John Tavares and Mitch Marner. Both players are set to enter free agency, with speculation mounting about their potential departures from the team. Tavares, who has been a key player for the Maple Leafs, may be considering a move that could offer him a more lucrative contract elsewhere, while Marner's future appears increasingly uncertain as he has not engaged in contract discussions with the team, leading many to believe he will also leave Toronto for a new opportunity. ### Breakdown of Current Situations for Tavares and Marner 1. **John Tavares' Future**: - Tavares is reportedly contemplating leaving the Maple Leafs for a more financially rewarding contract, as insiders suggest he could "make a lot more money leaving Toronto" [https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/news-nhl-insider-drops-bold-claim-john-tavares-future-maple-leafs-free-agency-decision-inches-closer-make-lot-money-leaving-toronto]. - His decision is expected to be influenced by the Maple Leafs' overall strategy and potential roster changes. 2. **Mitch Marner's Uncertain Status**: - Marner has not engaged in contract discussions with the Maple Leafs, leading to speculation that he is unlikely to return [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/report_mitch_marner_unlikely_to_return_to_maple_leafs_has_not_engaged_with_team_in_discussions/s1_15332_42330590]. - Reports indicate that he is expected to test free agency on July 1, with potential suitors including the Carolina Hurricanes, who are rumored to be preparing a significant contract offer [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/nhl_rumours_toronto_maple_leafs_superstar_will_sign_with_a_new_team_in_free_agency/s1_17203_42325285]. 3. **Team Dynamics and Future Implications**: - The potential departures of both Tavares and Marner could lead to a significant shift in the Maple Leafs' roster and strategy, as general manager Brad Treliving has hinted at a need for a "DNA change" within the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/marner_set_to_depart_maple_leafs_more_nhl_rumours/s1_16448_42328356]. - Fans and analysts speculate that whichever team secures Marner's signature could be positioned for success, with some suggesting that "whoever he lands with will win a cup before the Leafs" [https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/news-whoever-lands-will-win-cup-leafs-nhl-fans-speculate-mitch-marner-s-next-landing-spot-reports-hint-toronto-exit]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract Offers**: The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly considering a seven-year deal for Marner worth over $14 million annually, which could make him the highest-paid winger in the NHL [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/nhl_rumours_toronto_maple_leafs_superstar_will_sign_with_a_new_team_in_free_agency/s1_17203_42325285]. - **Performance Metrics**: Marner had a standout season, achieving a career-high of 102 points, which enhances his market value as a free agent [https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/news-mitch-marner-s-maple-leafs-future-decided-nhl-insider-drops-bombshell-claim]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Offseason for the Maple Leafs In summary, the Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a pivotal offseason as both John Tavares and Mitch Marner approach free agency. 1. **Tavares may leave for a more lucrative contract**: His potential departure could reshape the team's financial landscape. 2. **Marner is likely to test free agency**: With no recent discussions with the Maple Leafs, he is expected to explore options that could lead to a significant contract elsewhere. 3. **Team dynamics are in flux**: The potential exits of these star players could signal a broader transformation within the Maple Leafs, as management seeks to redefine the team's competitive strategy. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of these key players and the overall direction of the Toronto Maple Leafs [https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/news-nhl-rumors-1b-franchise-taking-another-swing-mitch-marner-failed-offer-sheet-2019].