Brad Marchand always and forever ‘enemy number 1’ in Toronto is about to have a very interesting summer. The Florida Panthers star just finished a strong season and is currently battling it out in the Stanley Cup Finals.
His 51 points in 71 games, plus 15 more in 18 playoff matchups, has been godsend for Florida. Not bad for a 37-year-old.
But well, Marchand is set to become a free agent this summer. That means he can sign with any team he wants., and the rumors? Funny and absurd as it sounds even the Maple Leafs are in the mix, at least according to the hockey town rumor mill.
Yes, the same Leafs that Marchand has caused heartbreak for in the playoffs before. Now, some fans are dreaming of seeing him wear the blue and white instead of tormenting it.
TSN insider Chris Johnston says it’s very likely Marchand hits the open market. And when he does, expect a bidding war. One report says he might land a deal worth $8 million per season, which is more than he’s currently making.
Chris Johnston: Brad Marchand expected to test the open market, will allow a bidding war and will be open minded about which team he plays for – Chris Johnston Show
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 5, 2025
That’s a massive contract for someone at this stage of their career, but hey, it could be his last one, so he’s going to choose carefully.
The Leafs’ GM Brad Treliving is expected to go all-in this summer, especially if Mitch Marner ends up leaving, which many people believe he will. That puts a lot of pressure on Toronto’s front office to make bold moves.
In case you missed: Mitch Marner “More Than Willing” to Test Free Agency as Leafs face Crucial Decision claims top Insider
So, will Marchand actually join the Leafs? Nobody knows yet, but the drama is real. One thing’s for sure, this offseason is going to be wild and Leafs Nation will be watching closely.