Quoting: tryger
LA can want Marner all they want, they neither have the money nor the forward corps to entice Marner to waive his NMC. Unless some team offers Marner $12M he should try to score as many points as possible, look loyal, and like a strong team mate. Staying in Toronto on Matthews wing solves all this without up rooting his life.
I think LA is more interested in Ulllmark, Saros, and Markstrom if they make a big swing. But they really can’t do anything until Byfield is extended.
100%, I know Ullmark is priority #1, Byfield is priority #2.
I think you underestimate the situation in Toronto. If Marner is in the lineup he will get booed every time he touches the puck, he will be harassed in the streets, slandered in the press.
Unless he puts up 100+ points AND contributes significantly in the playoffs his value will be lower this time next year than it is now.
Unless he thinks there is a chance of getting an extension in Toronto or he really loves the city enough to be in a one sided relationship, his best move is to leave Toronto.
Where to is a whole different conversation. Personally I think if LA is offering an extension that he thinks is fair that it's a great option.
I just don't see traditional choices like Vegas, Florida, Tampa being options for him.
But I'm purely speculating. Your points are taken and are definitely well founded.