Connor Bedard's Blackhawks Make Final Decision on Pursuit of $65 million dollar Maple Leafs Forward

While the Chicago Blackhawks desperately need top talent to push the team's rebuild forward, they've made a decision regarding Mitch Marner.

The 102-point scoring, $65 million forward is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season. With no contract in sight with the Toronto Maple Leafs, he could be a highly sought-after player in July.

While Marner would be a benefit to the Blackhawks' ranks, Kyle Davidson has decided to pass on the forward.

His contract demands could be shouldered by the team, considering they have nearly $31 million in cap space. But instead, won't allocate cap space to a possible $13-14 million demand that Marner could ask for.

Marner may not have the tools needed for the Blackhawks' rebuild, considering the fact that he and Toronto's core four were unable to shut the door on the Florida Panthers in seven games.

With Jeff Blashill behind the bench, the team needs to make a huge leap forward and Marner could be a huge "it" factor for the team.

But Marner and the Blackhawks may never meet or come to terms in July, as other suitors have arisen.

These include the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, two legitimate Stanley Cup contenders.

It appears neither fits each other's timelines, as the Blackhawks will have to look at different options available in July.

Marner may not be one of them, but there are a multitude of top-six talents available, including Brock Boeser.