Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving indicated that the team is currently working through the process of determining the optimal path forward concerning the future of star forward Mitch Marner, who is slated to become an unrestricted free agent.
“I can`t provide a definitive answer right now,” Treliving stated to reporters during a press conference on Thursday when asked about the strategy for Marner`s future. “Firstly, we must navigate the process with Mitch. Our staff is presently evaluating all potential outcomes. However, we aim to steer towards what we believe is the most beneficial result. In Mitch`s situation, he also has a voice in this matter.”
Earlier in Thursday`s media availability, Treliving was quick to commend Marner`s abilities and emphasize that the upcoming discussions would involve mutual input.
“I believe Mitch is an exceptional player,” Treliving commented. “I consider him a star.”
Regarding captain John Tavares, whose contract also concludes after the next season, Treliving mentioned having recent discussions with Tavares and his representative, expressing his admiration for the player and person.
“I`ve had good conversations with John,” Treliving said. “I think he`s a wonderful person and a wonderful player. I think the world of John Tavares.”
Treliving highlighted Tavares`s character and contributions, particularly his leadership as captain, and noted that discussions are ongoing as they evaluate the future together.
“Those are conversations we`ve had,” he added. “We`ll continue to have them. We`ll figure out where that all goes. He`s the captain here. I think he`s done a tremendous job. He`s a big part of the organization and a big part of the team. We`ll see where that goes.”
Finally, Treliving touched upon sophomore forward Matthew Knies, who is entering the final year of his entry-level contract. Treliving indicated that discussions about a potential extension for Knies have already begun.
“We`ve started dialogue there with his representative,” Treliving confirmed. “Just getting a feel for it. That`s something we`d like to look at doing this summer.”
