Mitch Marner used past tense.
That’s what everyone noticed in the Toronto Maple Leafs star’s exit interview with the media on Tuesday. When he spoke about his fondness for the Leafs, he chose to talk about it in the past.
This is what Marner told reporters:
“I’ve always loved my time here. Loved being here.”
Marner, as an impending free agent, likely knew exactly what he was saying.
He knows he’s going to be the most sought-after free agent in the NHL, a genuine two-way superstar.
Marner grew into one of the league’s best players with the Leafs, and he was a key part of their team that came mighty close to finally getting back to the conference finals.
But they didn’t get over the hump, and that must be part of the reckoning for Marner at this point.
He gets this chance for a big payday, and he can also use it to position himself as best he can to chase a Stanley Cup.
Is that in Toronto?
On the one hand, skating with Auston Matthews has to be a great positive for a forward.
On the other hand, the Maple Leafs sometimes get results in the playoffs as if they’re cursed.
Marner might just want to see what else is out there. The dollar figures will surely be staggering. He’ll have his pick of offers.
Maybe his tense in Tuesday’s interview didn’t mean anything. But it’s certainly not how you’d answer a question if you planned on staying, is it?
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