At the 2nd Annual Marner All-Star Invitational Charity, Mitch Marner was dancing around any questions about his contract negotiations.
Speaking with TSN's Mark Masters and several media members, the Leafs' dynamic playmaking forward didn't want to take the focus away from the event, and explained that he hasn't been paying attention to all the drama around the discussions, including a speculated offer sheet.
"You have to ask my agent." Rinse and repeat.
Marner told reporters that he'd like to get a contract done before training camp, but if he doesn't he'd likely follow in the footsteps of William Nylander sit out training camp.
The two-day event is made up of Marner's teammates, NHL players and alumni, and Olympians with proceeds going to help local kids with social care, health and education.
The event raises money for children's organizations such as SickKids, Muskoka Woods, Muskoka Woods, Eabametoong First Nation and Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart Foundation.
Guests included Maple Leaf John Tavares, former Leaf Nazem Kadri, Tampa Bay Lightning’s Anthony Cirelli, New York Islanders’ Michael Dal Colle and Laura Stacey and Erin Ambrose from Canada’s Olympic Women's Hockey’s Team.
The 22-year-old leading scorer of the Leafs is said to be looking for a long-term contract in the neighbourhood of Auston Matthews deal (five years, $11.6 million AAV).
With the Leafs pressed against the cap, speculation has arisen that Marner could sign an offer sheet with another club since Leafs GM Kyle Dubas would like to sign Marner for under $10 million per season.
According to Cap Friendly, the Leafs currently have $3,765,301, but will have more than $9 million to work with once Nathan Horton is placed on LTIR and players on their current roster are sent to the AHL.
