Mitch Marner breaks silence after major Leafs leadership change

The Toronto Maple Leafs made their latest major leadership change official earlier today, naming forward Auston Matthews the 26th captain in franchise history. Several current and former Leafs players and executives were on hand for the announcement, including forward Mitch Marner. 

Marner, who has found himself the subject of swirling trade rumors following yet another subpar postseason performance while also entering the final year of his contract, briefly touched on his future with the team while speaking briefly with media members at the press conference.

"I’m not going to get into that too much today," Marner explained while keeping the focus on Matthews and Tavares. "I’m just going to say I love being here, I’ve said that from Day 1. I’m very fortunate and lucky to be a Maple Leaf.

"Today is about these two amazing people."

Additionally, Marner addressed the photograph of him meeting privately at a coffee shop with new Leafs head coach Craig Berube that went viral on social media, noting the humor of the situation. 

“Craig has been awesome. That one was pretty funny to get out, a little coffee shop in Etobicoke, and there were only a couple of people in there,” Marner recalled. “It’s been great talking to him all summer. We’re excited for this year, we’re excited to get it going. He’s been a joyful new mind and we’re excited to play under him.”

With 85 points in 69 games played in 2023-24, Marner produced at over a point-per-game pace for the Leafs for the sixth consecutive season. However, many have speculated that his $10.9 million cap hit would be better spent filling other needs on the roster.

Marner is eligible to sign an extension, but all signs point to him entering the upcoming campaign without a new contract in place beyond next spring.

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