The Leafs, having Marner's negotiating rights, are the only franchise who can offer Marner a maximum eight-year deal. Once signed, they could flip him to a contender looking to spread out Marner's new cap hit over a longer term.

Mitch Marner is very close to leaving the Toronto Maple Leafs ahead of the NHL offseason, and the Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly willing to make a high-stakes offer for Auston Matthews’ former linemate.

For weeks, it felt like Mitch Marner’s time with the Toronto Maple Leafs was quietly ticking down — a breakup waiting for the Dear John letter. After another early playoff exit and an expiring contract,