As the Detroit Red Wings aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming NHL season, insider Cole Shelton has suggested a bold move: acquiring Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Mitch Marner. Marner, who is in the final year of his six-year, $65.41 million contract, is set to become a free agent on July 1, 2025. Shelton predicts that the Red Wings could offer Marner a seven-year deal worth $105 million, translating to an average annual value of $15 million. This would be a significant investment, but one that could bolster Detroit’s offensive capabilities.
Marner has been a consistent performer for the Maple Leafs, recording 21 goals and 62 assists for 83 points in 67 games during the 2024–25 season. His playmaking ability and scoring touch would complement the Red Wings’ existing core, which includes rising stars like Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider. Adding a player of Marner’s caliber could provide the offensive spark needed to end Detroit’s eight-year playoff drought.
The Red Wings currently have over $22 million in cap space, positioning them well to make a significant acquisition. General Manager Steve Yzerman has previously indicated a willingness to be aggressive in the offseason to improve the team’s competitiveness. Signing a player of Marner’s stature would align with this strategy and signal the organization’s commitment to returning to playoff contention.
However, pursuing Marner would not be without challenges. The Red Wings would need to navigate the complexities of the salary cap and potentially make room by moving existing contracts. Additionally, they would face competition from other teams vying for Marner’s services, making the negotiation process potentially contentious. Nevertheless, the potential rewards of adding a top-tier forward to the lineup could outweigh these obstacles.
As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on the Red Wings to see if they make a serious push for Marner. If they succeed, it could mark a turning point for the franchise and a step toward returning to prominence in the NHL.
