NHL analyst Paul Bissonnette suggested Mitch Marner as a potential target for the Penguins.
Marner is due for a significant pay raise and could command upwards of $14-15 million.
Kyle Dubas has indicated the Penguins would focus on the RFA market, making a UFA signing like Marner less likely.
The Penguins have considerable cap space in the coming years but also have key players who may be moved to create more flexibility.
Why this matters: Marner's potential availability and Dubas's familiarity with him could lead to an interesting situation for the Penguins as they navigate their rebuild.
The possibility of Mitch Marner joining the Pittsburgh Penguins has sparked debate among NHL analysts. Paul Bissonnette highlighted the connection between Marner and Penguins GM Kyle Dubas, who previously worked together in Toronto. Marner, who is due for a substantial pay raise, could become a free agent if he doesn't agree to an extension with the Maple Leafs.
However, Dubas has stated the Penguins will primarily target restricted free agents (RFAs) rather than unrestricted free agents (UFAs) like Marner. Dubas noted that the rising salary cap could make UFA signings too expensive for the Penguins' long-term plans. The Penguins have significant cap space in the coming seasons, but also have existing contracts that could be moved to create additional room.
Signing Marner would require a substantial financial commitment and might limit the Penguins' ability to address other areas of their roster. While a Marner-Dubas reunion is intriguing, several factors suggest it's a long shot, including the Penguins' stated strategy and Marner's potential price tag.
Is Mitch Marner likely to sign with the Penguins?
A:: It's unlikely, given Kyle Dubas's stated preference for targeting restricted free agents and the potential cost of signing Marner.
How much could Marner's next contract be worth?
A:: Marner could command upwards of $14-15 million per year, especially if he becomes a free agent.
What is the Penguins' current cap situation?
A:: The Penguins have over $23 million in cap space currently, with even more projected in the coming years.
Mitch Marner's future is uncertain, with a potential free agency looming if he doesn't extend with the Maple Leafs. The Pittsburgh Penguins, led by Kyle Dubas, could be a dark horse in the Marner sweepstakes, despite their stated focus on restricted free agents. The high cost of signing Marner might deter the Penguins, as they aim to build a team through younger, RFA talent. Keep an eye on Marner's situation as the offseason unfolds.
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