IDONE DEAL: Montreal Canadiens Land Mitch Marner in Blockbuster Free Agency Signing
Montreal, QC – July 1, 2025
In a stunning move that’s set the hockey world buzzing, the Montreal Canadiens have signed star forward Mitch Marner in free agency, bringing the elite winger to one of the NHL’s most historic franchises. The deal, confirmed by the team early Tuesday morning, is reportedly worth $11.5 million annually over seven years.
Done deal. Mitch Marner is coming to Montreal.
After months of speculation surrounding Marner’s future with the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Canadiens swooped in and made the biggest splash of the offseason. Marner, 28, was one of the top names on the free agent market after his contract with the Maple Leafs expired at the end of the 2024–25 season. While many expected him to re-sign in Toronto, negotiations stalled, and Montreal capitalized.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mitch to the Canadiens organization,” said GM Kent Hughes in a press conference held at the Bell Centre. “He’s a world-class talent, an elite playmaker, and someone who brings instant impact on both ends of the ice. This is a major step forward for our team and our city.”
Marner, who tallied 93 points (28 goals, 65 assists) in 80 games last season, now joins a young and rapidly maturing Canadiens core led by captain Nick Suzuki and sniper Cole Caufield. The addition immediately gives Montreal one of the most dangerous top lines in the Eastern Conference.
“I’m excited for this next chapter,” said Marner, donning the Canadiens’ red, white, and blue for the first time. “I’ve always respected this organization, its history, and the passion of the fans here. It’s tough to leave Toronto—it’s all I’ve known—but I’m ready to win, and I believe this group is on the verge of something special.”
Marner’s departure marks a painful moment for Maple Leafs fans, who watched the talented winger grow into one of the league’s premier offensive threats. Drafted fourth overall by Toronto in 2015, Marner spent nine seasons with the Leafs, amassing 639 points in 614 career games. However, playoff frustration and salary cap constraints led the Leafs in a different direction this offseason.
The Canadiens, meanwhile, have sent a clear message: the rebuild is over. With Marner on board, Montreal shifts into contender mode, surrounding Suzuki and Caufield with a true star in his prime.
“This signing changes everything,” said TSN analyst Pierre LeBrun. “Montreal just added one of the most complete forwards in the game. Power play, penalty kill, 5-on-5—Marner’s a difference-maker every shift.”
The move is not without risk, as the hefty contract carries a long-term cap commitment, but the upside is clear. The Canadiens are betting big, and for fans in Montreal, the excitement is palpable.
With the dust still settling on the free agent frenzy, one thing is certain: Mitch Marner is no longer the face of the Leafs. He’s now a Montreal Canadien.
And the Bell Centre faithful can’t wait to see him light it up.