Surprising Scenario Emerging for Maple Leafs' Offseason Plans Regarding Mitch Marner and Matthew Knies

The Toronto Maple Leafs fought hard to Game 7 of the second round in 2025, but the end result was still the same: the team continues to search for their first trip to the Stanley Cup Finals since way back in 2001/02.

They've got some huge decisions to make in free agency as a result, but from all angles, it appears as though star forward Mitch Marner is on his way out, even if the team believe he's a chance to return.

On top of that, there has been some discussion around rising young forward Matthew Knies potentially being offer sheeted in the off-season, although the 21-year old recently shut down that idea.

Now however, a scenario has emerged, according to Elliotte Friedman where not one but both players could stay, and although the team would likely need to shake things up elsewhere, this could be an interesting route for Brad Treliving and the Maple Leafs to take.

Given the vitriol that has been sprayed in the direction of Marner by this fanbase however, it's unclear exactly why he'd want to come back, especially if he's likely to be offered upwards of $13.5 million elsewhere in free agency.

As of right now, there are so many different ways that free agency can play out for the Maple Leafs, and while this is just one of many scenarios, it's definitely not one to rule out for this team.