Mitch Marner prepares to leave Toronto with list of preferred NHL teams: Report

NHL star Mitch Marner is in the spotlight again. After the Toronto Maple Leafs fell short in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs , Mitch Marner may be ready for a big change. According to multiple reports, he is now looking at new options and has made a list of eight NHL teams where he might want to play next.


Mitch Marner narrows his options for next NHL team
On Friday, May 31, 2025, hockey insider David Pagnotta reported that Mitch Marner has created a list of eight teams he is open to joining through free agency. This news was first shared by The Fourth Period. Marner is under contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but after another early playoff exit, his future with the team is uncertain.

ICYMI: The Leafs and Golden Knights discussed a trade involving Mitch Marner and Shea Theodore last summer

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According to the report, Marner might not want to stay in Canada. He could be planning to leave the country completely, ruling out all seven Canadian NHL teams. This shows a big shift in his thinking, especially since he has played in Toronto for his entire career.

Two teams already named on his list are the Los Angeles Kings and the Vegas Golden Knights. Both teams play in the Western Conference and have strong playoff potential. Los Angeles fans were especially excited after hearing the news. Their team was also knocked out early in the 2025 postseason and could use a player like Marner.

Also Read: NHL Rumor: Mitch Marner almost left Toronto as Maple Leafs secretly held talks with Vegas


Insiders suggest Mitch Marner looking forward more possible teams and reasons behind the move
Well-known hockey reporter Elliotte Friedman shared more insight during his appearance on Hockey Night in Canada on May 30, 2025. He suggested the Anaheim Ducks might also be on Marner’s radar. While they are a younger team, they could be an attractive long-term option for the 27-year-old forward.

Another possible team mentioned is the Florida Panthers. They have had deep playoff runs recently and could be seen as rivals to the Maple Leafs. Some believe Marner might prefer to join a strong U.S.-based team instead of facing them every postseason.

Pagnotta also said the final decision could come soon. Fans and experts now wait to see where the talented winger will go next. Marner has not made any public comments yet, and the Leafs’ front office has also stayed quiet.

The story is still developing, but one thing is clear — Mitch Marner may soon leave Toronto after years of ups and downs with the Maple Leafs.