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Carolina Hurricanes reportedly pay Mitch Marner $14M in a massive free agent signing
Photo credit: NHL
The NHL free agency market opens in sixteen days, and the 28 year-old Mitch Marner will be the league's most coveted signing, as the star winger is not expected to return to the hometown Toronto Maple Leafs.
According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, the Eastern Conference Hurricanes are ready to throw a boatload of money at Marner's front door, in excess of $14M AAV over seven years.
"When/if Mitch Marner hits the open market July 1, the expectation is the Carolina Hurricanes are going to take a massive swing to try and sign him," Pagnotta tweeted. "Sources say we shouldn't be surprised if they go above $14M in an AAV over a 7-year term. UFA market open in 16 days."
The Carolina Hurricanes had previously shown interest in Marner at this year's trade deadline, offering a package deal that would have seen Mikko Rantanen going to Toronto. Marner, however, would not wave his no-trade clause, when asked to do so by Leafs' GM Brad Treliving.
The long-time Leafs winger recorded a career-best 102 points (27g, 75a) this season, and put up 13 points in the playoffs, 2goals and 11 assists in 13 games.
"I've always loved my time here (Toronto)," Marner said. "I've loved being here. I've been so grateful. I haven't processed anything yet."
According to PuckPedia, Carolina is expected to have over $28.4M in cap space this summer, ample room to sign Mitch Marner to a substantial contract.
Whether Marner agrees to play in Carolina is another matter. Several teams have also shown interest in the creative forward, who is also one of the NHL's best passers.
Vegas Golden Knights, Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, and of course, the Canes, are all vying for Marner's services.
Previously on Washington Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
JUIN 15 | 11 ANSWERS Carolina Hurricanes reportedly pay Mitch Marner $14M in a massive free agent signing Do you think Mitch Marner should remain with the Toronto Maple Leafs? | ||
| Yes | 4 | 36.4 % |
| Heck no | 7 | 63.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
