I said this prior to July 1, but the only way Gardiner returns to TO is if his back is preventing him from getting any long term deals, which appears to be the case. There is some sense to the idea that he signs a 1 year deal with TO to rebuild his stock and take a shot at the cup. If he shows well and stays healthy someone may give him 5 years next summer.

Its that or he signs a much larger 1 year deal somewhere else where he gets bigger minutes than he'll get in TO.

I wish but we all know it ain’t happening

Maybe Gards does that if he is unsigned by camp, but he likely gets a 3 year deal before then. He is likely still holding out for 6-7 years but won't get it

No way the Leafs give Marner that much salary for only 3 years, max he gets is $8m on a 3 year deal

Gardiner's back is fine. James Mirtle stated as such on a sports podcast yesterday. There have been offers for him, he just sees no reason to make a quick decision if an opportunity presents itself to return to the Leafs. I just don't see it happening for minimal money and term. Just my opinion.

that would leave 3 million for Gardner so even easier to make this work