Can we go one day without talking again about Marner?

No, no we can’t.

Mitch is back in town to host a charity event for his Marner Assist Fund this weekend, and as part of that he spoke with the media. The idea was presumably to talk about his event, but of course he was going to be asked about his ongoing contract negotiations.

First, he was asked some questions at the venue by some reporters. He mentioned he wanted to be signed and with the team for the start of training camp, which of course he does. He also mentioned pretty much leaving all the contract stuff to his agent — several times, in fact — while he enjoys the off-season and trains. I recall seeing a quote from Josh Anderson or Athanasiou saying the same thing after their deals were signed: they did their own thing while Ferris did all the negotiation.

Then, he went on Tim and Sid for a short segment. Thankfully, Sid was not part of it. We got a funny little video of Marner doing a 360 on a wake board and doing a celebratory dance after. After talking about the event, Marner is eventually asked about the contract because of course. He reiterates that Ferris is handling all the contract stuff until he gets called to sign the final deal.

Honestly there wasn’t anything that was said that we wouldn’t already expect, or that we haven’t already heard.

Despite that, I came to a realization. I want Mitch to sign and come back. I still don’t want him to sign a ludicrous contract, but I want him and the Leafs to find a way to get him back on the team before the start of the season on a deal that makes sense for both sides. He’s too fun a player. He IS still a local Toronto boy, he’s so much fun to watch, and I hate the idea that the Leafs will finally draft great players and start losing them. I don’t know if there’s a trade out there that could happen that would adequately replace all that — draft picks from an offer sheet sure wouldn’t.

I’m already sad that the Leafs had to walk away from JvR and likely Gardiner, and had to trade Kadri. They were the guys who were lights during the dark years, and managed to bridge us to the current run of being actually good.

So come on, guys, make it happen. Bring Mitchy back home.

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Coming soon to elseldo’s hockey swag collection:

Have a happy Friday, everyone!

Who is your favourite current Leaf player?

Matthews133
Marner99
Nylander68
Tavares90
Rielly73
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