Pending free agent Mitch Marner has officially made his decision

Toronto Maple Leafs pending free agent forward Mitch Marner is set to become one of the most coveted players to hit the open market in recent memory, as all indications point toward a split between him and his current club.

Like Marner, his teammate John Tavares is also a pending UFA; the Maple Leafs team that hits the ice this fall in Training Camp could look very different than the team that was defeated by the divisional foe Florida Panthers in 7 games last month.

Marner, who reached a new career-best 102 points (27G, 75A) this year, will have no shortage of potential suitors on the open market who would love to add his talent to their roster.

Per TSN's Chris Johnston, Marner will be heading to the open market but hasn't completely closed the door on any chance of a new contract with the Maple Leafs.

Among the teams that are expected to show heavy interest in Marner are the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Vegas Golden Knights, and Chicago Blackhawks.

Marner has even been suggested to be courted by the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators, which would be an especially strange sight considering the numerous battles that he and the Maple Leafs have had with them over the years.

If Marner does re-sign with the Maple Leafs, it would mean their management believes they can still get it done with him in the playoffs despite multiple past disappointments.