The Toronto Maple Leafs face critical decisions this offseason regarding pending unrestricted free agents Mitch Marner and John Tavares.
Marner indicated he’s not ready to discuss his future with the organization following Toronto’s elimination.
“Don’t have any thoughts right now,” he said after the Maple Leafs’ 6-1 loss in Game 7 to the Florida Panthers on Sunday. “Pretty devastated by what just happened. I’ve always enjoyed this team and this city.”
Tavares expressed his desire to return when asked if he would like to be back next season.
“Yes,” Tavares said. “It’s meant everything to me. It was a big decision I made seven years ago. I’ve loved it, and it’s been amazing for myself and my family. Just accept responsibility, we haven’t been able to come through and play well enough to where we want to get to.”
Marner, 28, ranks fifth in franchise history with 741 points in 657 regular-season games.
The Thornhill, Ontario native was selected fourth overall by Toronto in 2015. He’s posted a 0-7 record in elimination games throughout his career, recording zero goals and two assists in those contests.
Marner would likely be the top UFA available if he reaches the open market this summer.
Tavares, from nearby Oakville, Ontario, joined the Maple Leafs on a seven-year, $77-million contract in 2018.
The veteran center has recorded 493 points in 515 regular-season games with Toronto.
Tavares has gone 0-5 in winner-take-all playoff games with the Maple Leafs, contributing just one goal and no assists.
Despite turning 34 before next season, Tavares could attract significant interest as a free agent after scoring 38 goals and adding 36 assists during the regular season.
