We’re approaching the final weekend of August. Once Monday hits, it’ll be a new month, and the NHL will inch even closer to training camp.

Players will fly back to their respective cities, coaching staffs will have their new arrangements finalized, and all the RFAs will remain unsigned. That of course includes Mitch Marner.

As Kevin Papetti predicted, the Marner-Ferris era has reached the “Threaten to Play Overseas” portion of the negotiations with talk of him practising with the Zurich Lions (very original).

Will it happen? Whether it happens or not won’t trigger too much of a buzz considering most are expecting an early October decision. Now if Marner pulls a Jesse Puljujarvi and signs a one-year deal, then we may have something to cock an eyebrow at.

Maybe someone should write him a letter and let him know he broke the tie on the T25U5 with William Nylander.

In Case You Missed It

Top 25 Under 25: Auston Matthews reigns at #1 again - Pension Plan Puppets
To the shock of absolutely no one, and the rage of Paul Marner, Auston kept his crown.

Maple Leafs Top 25 Under 25: Mitch Marner Cashes In At #2 - Pension Plan Puppets
The prodigal son is our second-best player under 25.

Maple Leafs Top 25 Under 25: William Nylander is #3 - Pension Plan Puppets
It’s time to get the true measure of the most polarizing player on the Leafs.

Around the Hockey World

A look at how the Penguins can re-sign Marcus Pettersson WITHOUT making a trade - PensBurgh
The Pens are up against the cap but might be able to sign Pettersson anyways

A Look At The Wild’s Roster For The 2021 Expansion Draft - Hockey Wilderness
It’s still far out, but several trades and signings have changed the Wild’s outlook for the 2021 Seattle Expansion Draft.

Jack Eichel is ready for a bigger role on-ice role under Krueger - Die By The Blade
Eichel is at the point in his career where he should take on more defensive responsibilities

From The Branches