NHL Free Agency Rumors: Could Penguins Pursue Mitch Marner?

Tuesday, March 18, 2025 ,

If Mitch Marner does test free agency, the Pittsburgh Penguins are expected to at least explore the possibility.

That being said, Josh Yohe of The Athletic wrote on the possibility of the Pittsburgh Penguins pursuing Mitch Marner in free agency, but he believes the timing doesn’t align with their long-term plans. 

While the Penguins will have around $25 million in cap space this summer, Yohe reports that GM Kyle Dubas isn’t expected to make a major splash. “I sense that the Penguins are prepared to be something less than great next season, get another high pick, and then start making their move in the summer of 2026,” he wrote. 

Though Marner has ties to Dubas and Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh’s current direction makes a signing unlikely.

Former NHLer Colby Armstrong believes Marner would be a great fit, saying on NHL on TNT, “They have 30 picks in the next three drafts… Can they secure him? Can they sign him in the offseason?” With Evgeni Malkin likely entering his final season, adding Marner would inject star power into the lineup. 

However, Yohe points out that Marner will have no shortage of suitors, and Pittsburgh’s rebuilding timeline may not be ideal for a player looking to win immediately.

Beyond Marner, Yohe believes the Penguins will focus on trading Erik Karlsson this summer, likely retaining $3 million of his cap hit to make a deal work. 

Tristan Jarry’s future is also uncertain, with Yohe noting that if he finishes the season strong, Pittsburgh could find a trade partner. 

Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors