Mitch Marner is one of the NHL’s most talented right wingers and is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. After earning $10.9 million per year on his last contract, he’ll surely attract big offers from teams looking to boost their offence and special teams. While there’s still a strong chance he stays with the Toronto Maple Leafs, let’s explore three possible destinations if Marner decides to move on.
Chicago Blackhawks: Pairing Up With Connor Bedard
The Chicago Blackhawks are in the middle of a rebuild, but they’re also making progress. With the third-overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and a young star in Connor Bedard, they have a bright future. What they’re missing is a top-tier playmaker to support Bedard — and Marner fits that role perfectly.
Marner’s elite passing could make Bedard’s deadly shot even more dangerous. Chicago finished in the bottom 10 for offence in the 2024–25 season, so adding a player who consistently produces around 100 points per season would give the Blackhawks a much-needed boost. His arrival could also ease the pressure on Bedard, helping him develop into one of the league’s top players.
Detroit Red Wings: A Key Piece for the ‘Yzerplan’
The Detroit Red Wings haven’t made the playoffs during GM Steve Yzerman’s rebuild strategy — often called the “Yzerplan.” One major weakness for Detroit this past season was their penalty kill, which ranked last in the league. Marner, known for his two-way game and penalty killing, would be a huge upgrade in that department.
He’d also give Detroit a major boost on offence. The Red Wings have talent but have struggled to put it all together. Adding Marner could be the move that finally helps them break through and become a playoff team again.
Now, it’s worth noting that signing with Detroit would keep Marner in the same division as the Maple Leafs. That might discourage him — or, it might motivate him even more to prove a point.
Pittsburgh Penguins: Reuniting With Kyle Dubas
The Pittsburgh Penguins might not seem like a top option at first glance, but they actually have the cap space to make a big move. With captain Sidney Crosby still playing at a high level and on a team-friendly deal worth $8.7 million, the Penguins could afford to bring in a big name like Marner.
Marner would bring new life to a Penguins offence that struggled last season and help fix their average penalty kill. He would also be a perfect linemate for Crosby, giving the veteran star a skilled and smart winger to play with.
Plus, there’s a personal connection here: Penguins GM Kyle Dubas was the one who signed Marner in Toronto. That relationship could make Pittsburgh a real option if Marner looks elsewhere.
Mitch Marner may still decide to stay in Toronto, where he’s built his career so far. But if he explores free agency, there will be no shortage of interest. Whether it’s joining forces with Connor Bedard in Chicago, helping Detroit complete its rebuild, or reuniting with Kyle Dubas in Pittsburgh, Marner could be the missing piece for a team on the rise. His next decision will shape not just his future, but possibly the future of whichever team lands him.
