Mitch Marner immediately shuts down in press conference on Leafs’ opening day of camp

Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner does not want to deal with questions on his future in Toronto. On Wednesday morning, the team opened its training camp with some press conferences, and the star winger met media members, though he immediately shut down any questions on his expiring contract status. He politely refrained from any contract questions, adding however that he does appreciate the support NHLers have given him about surviving the criticism this summer in Toronto.

“I’m not here to talk about that. I’m here to talk about the season.”

The star forward is entering the final year of a six-year, $65.41 million contract and will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2024-25 campaign. Last season, a similar situation took place when teammate William Nylander, who played through the season without an extension, ended up signing an eight-year, $92 million contract on January 2024.

As of now, both sides seem fine with letting the coming season unfold as Marner could have to prove his worth this season, especially prior to the trade deadline if he wants to get that big money extension. Marner could have a future in Toronto, but the Maple Leafs will need to figure out money while the winger will need to be way better during the postseason.

Marner had a strong regular season last year, posting 85 points in 69 games, but he will need to improve in the playoffs, especially if a contract extension in Toronto hangs in the balance. In the presser, Marner did open how much it means to him to play for his boyhood team:

"It's my home. It's where I grew up."

John Tavares is also on an expiring contract, though he did comment on a possible contract extension, stating how he wants to remain in Toronto during his presser.

“Obviously I want to be here. I want to be here long term. Hopefully that happens.”

Following the Maple Leafs’ elimination from the postseason back in May, Tavares, just like Marner, expressed interest in re-signing with the Maple Leafs once his deal expires. He was however since stripped on his captaincy, which was given to Auston Matthews.

This will be a busy season in the office in Toronto.