There’s growing speculation that the Detroit Red Wings could sign superstar when he hits the open market on July 1. He is considered the top free agent this offseason and is expected to draw interest from several teams. On Puckpedia, a platform where fans can suggest hypothetical trades and signings, one user predicts that Detroit will land Marner with a seven-year, $92.75 million contract.
This proposed deal would average $13.25 million per season, slightly below other projections suggesting Marner could fetch around $14 million or more annually. Even so, it would still represent a pay bump from his current $10.903 million salary with the Toronto Maple Leafs—Detroit’s Atlantic Division rival.
Marner, a dynamic winger, is currently leading the Maple Leafs in points. Through 74 games, he has tallied 24 goals and 69 assists for a total of 93 points, continuing to prove he’s one of the NHL’s elite players.
Signs Point to Marner Possibly Leaving Toronto
Despite Marner’s focus on the current season and his refusal to discuss a contract extension, there’s speculation he may depart Toronto. In a recent interview with The Athletic’s Jonas Siegel, the reporter came away thinking Marner could be more likely to leave than stay.
“I left the conversation less sure he wants to stay than before,” Siegel said on OverDrive on April 4. “It’s just a feeling, but I gave him opportunities to share more, and he mostly kept repeating that he’s just here to play hockey.”
Marner, a three-time All-Star, has spent his entire career with the Maple Leafs—his hometown team.
Yzerman Hints at Aggressive Offseason for Red Wings
Detroit remains in the playoff hunt, but their chances of qualifying are slim. If they fall short, GM Steve Yzerman has indicated he will be proactive in upgrading the roster.
“I’ll continue doing what I believe is right,” Yzerman said following the trade deadline. “That includes making moves in the offseason, at the draft—whatever it takes to build this team. I want to win as much as anyone in Detroit, and I take responsibility for where we’re at.”
The Red Wings haven’t made the playoffs since the 2015-16 season. With a current record of 35-33-7, they’re four points out of a playoff spot, facing what could be their ninth straight season without postseason action.