Mitch Marner, a cornerstone for the Toronto Maple Leafs since being drafted fourth overall in 2015, faces an uncertain future as his contract expires this summer. With 221 goals and 520 assists to his name, Marner has been instrumental, yet the Leafs' playoff struggles raise questions about his role moving forward. Only twice have they progressed past the first round, with losses in the subsequent rounds.

As free agency approaches, speculation mounts that the Carolina Hurricanes could make a significant offer to sign Marner, potentially exceeding a $14 million annual average value over seven years. The Hurricanes, seeking to enhance their roster after consecutive Eastern Conference Final exits, view Marner as a game-changing addition. A move to Carolina could alleviate the pressures Marner experienced in Toronto.