Because rampant speculation has the all-star right winger going just about everywhere on the National Hockey League map — if, of course, he waives his no-move clause with the Maple Leafs.
It seems everyone but Marner is citing irreconcilable differences with his draft team that will lead to a move out of town.
Much like departed coach Sheldon Keefe, who was pilloried for the latest in a string of poor playoff performances, Marner will find willing suitors if he and general manager Brad Treliving can’t reach accord on a new deal about a month away from when talks can commence on an extension.
Enough teams will salivate over Marner’s 1.11 points-per-game average to enter into serious trade talks and cross the less-sturdy playoff bridge (0.87 ppg) when the time comes.
After eight years of being last off the ice in game-night warmups with Auston Matthews and first in the tunnel for high fives for each period, it’s a real possibility he bails on Bay Street, even with a cumbersome $10.9-million cap hit this coming season.
Will it be new digs? If so, here are some divergent destinations, in no particular order.
A year has passed since GM Kyle Dubas left Toronto to take the reins in Pittsburgh and people have wondered when he’ll bring one of his Toronto assets with him.
Dubas viewed Marner as a stanchion of the Core Four and, for better or worse, indulged him with a big contract and lots of off-ice freedom of expression.
