The Detroit Red Wings could be a team to watch in the offseason with over $22 million in cap space, and one forecast has them making a significant move.
The website Puckpedia features a tool called PuckGM, which allows users to propose trades and signings. One user predicts that Detroit will sign Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner to a seven-year, $105 million contract. This deal would see Marner earn $15 million annually, a major financial boost.
Marner is in the final year of his six-year, $65.41 million contract with the Maple Leafs. Should he reach free agency on July 1, he would be the top available player, attracting interest from multiple teams.
If the Red Wings sign Marner, he could play on the first or second line, adding more offensive power to the roster. His age aligns well with Detroit’s current core, helping the team make a push for the playoffs once again. Marner has tallied 21 goals and 62 assists for 83 points in 67 games this season with Toronto.
Red Wings GM Plans to Strengthen Roster
Detroit is competing for a playoff spot, but they made no major moves at the trade deadline. General manager Steve Yzerman stated he tried to make a big trade, but nothing came to fruition. Yzerman said he would focus on improving the roster during the offseason.
“I’m going to keep doing what I think is right, whether that’s at the deadline, through the summer, or at the draft,” Yzerman explained after the trade deadline. “I want to make the playoffs and win a Stanley Cup just like everyone else here, and I take full responsibility for where we are right now. I’ll make the best decisions for the team, both short- and long-term.”
Yzerman mentioned that the team had sought to acquire an impactful winger but decided against making a move. “We tried to bring in a winger to replace Andrew’s loss, but honestly, we couldn’t. Given what those higher-profile players went for, we’re not in a position to do that right now,” Yzerman said. Instead of a trade, Yzerman could target Marner as a key signing in the offseason.
Maple Leafs GM Remains Silent on Marner’s Future
With Marner entering the final year of his contract, his future with the Maple Leafs is uncertain. Marner has stated he won’t discuss an extension during the season, prompting Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving to focus solely on the current season.
“We’ll focus on what’s happening on the ice,” Treliving said. “Any business updates will be shared if and when necessary. Mitch is having a fantastic year, and he’s a key part of our team. Our attention is on these final 14 games and beyond.”
