The Chicago Blackhawks appear ready to take a major leap forward in their rebuilding process, as reports indicate the franchise is preparing to make a serious push to acquire All-Star winger Mitch Marner this offseason.
Marner, 28, is expected to become one of the most coveted unrestricted free agents this summer after the Toronto Maple Leafs’ elimination in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Florida Panthers. Toronto’s latest playoff collapse has sparked renewed scrutiny of its long-standing core, and multiple insiders report that Marner could be on the move, either via trade or free agency.
Toronto at a Crossroads
Marner’s current six-year, $65.4 million deal (AAV $10.9 million), signed in 2019, is now expiring. According to a report by the Times of India, internal discussions have begun within the Maple Leafs front office about either extending or moving the dynamic winger. A new contract could exceed $13 million annually, putting a significant strain on a Toronto team already dealing with cap limitations.
While Marner has publicly stated his desire to remain in Toronto — even reportedly declining a trade opportunity to the Carolina Hurricanes earlier this year — the franchise may be forced to retool following another early postseason exit.
“It’s devastating right now,” Marner said after Game 7. “We had a great year and fell short again. I’ve always loved this team and this city, but right now it’s hard to think about the future.”
Blackhawks Emerge as Serious Suitor
Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks are poised to act. With over $30 million in projected cap space, General Manager Kyle Davidson is said to be seriously targeting Marner as a potential cornerstone in the team’s next phase. According to ClutchPoints, Chicago is prepared to offer a lucrative, long-term deal that would give Marner a leading role in a young and promising core.
Chicago is in the midst of a rebuild, but the presence of Connor Bedard, who finished his sophomore NHL season with 67 points (23 goals, 44 assists), has accelerated expectations. Marner, a proven playmaker with elite skating and two-way ability, could be the perfect complement to Bedard, forming one of the league’s most exciting new duos.
“Marner’s hockey IQ, leadership, and postseason experience make him an ideal fit for a team like Chicago,” said one NHL front-office executive. “He can mentor young stars while still playing at an elite level.”
In the 2024–25 regular season, Marner tallied 71 points (16 goals, 55 assists) in 82 games, and added 13 points in 13 playoff appearances. Over his nine-season career, all with Toronto, he has amassed 741 points in 657 games — a testament to his consistency and high-level performance.
Competition on the Market
While Chicago is considered a top contender to land Marner, they are far from alone. Other potential suitors include the Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators, and even the Utah Mammoth — all looking to make marquee additions this summer. However, what sets the Blackhawks apart is the opportunity they offer: a leadership role in a rapidly ascending franchise, the chance to play alongside Bedard, and the spotlight of a major hockey market.
Should Toronto officially place Marner on the trade block or allow him to test free agency, expect the Blackhawks to be among the first teams to call.
Looking Ahead
With free agency just weeks away, all eyes now turn to Toronto’s front office and Marner’s camp. If the Blackhawks succeed in acquiring him — whether via trade or open-market signing — it would mark a defining moment in the club’s resurgence.
It’s clear: Chicago is no longer content to sit on cap space. They’re ready to compete. And Mitch Marner may be the first piece to make that happen.
