Without revisiting the painful postseason memories, it’s safe to say that Marner’s postseason production has left a lot to be desired in Toronto. However, his latest actions have people viewing Marner in a much different light.

Marner was a key contributor on a special project recently through his Marner Assist Foundation. The project? To build a state of the art playground for kids in the GTA. For more on that story, check out this article.

Marner has been vocal in the past about wanting to remain a Toronto Maple Leaf, and as recent as May of this year, he had established that the long-term goal is to remain a Leaf. This project could be evidence that a contract is being negotiated behind the scenes.

Marner’s community work is well-noted. His deep roots in the Markham area and the city of Toronto are known to all and his efforts to try improve the world around him is admirable. That shows in his latest venture. His investment in the community is important to him, so perhaps his comments about wanting to remain in Toronto are more than just lip service.

The Leafs have been able to discuss a new deal with Marner as of July 1st, and for a time, it looked like perhaps Marner might be the odd man out in Toronto, who were believed to be finally entertaining the idea of shaking up their core. The lack of chatter surrounding Marner’s contract status could be an indicator that he, his agent (Darren Ferris), and Brad Treliving are quietly hammering out a deal as we speak. It could also mean, though, that talks have not been occurring with any sort of regularity, so it’s really hard to know what’s going on.

Both Marner and new bench boss Craig Berube were extremely complimentary of one another this summer when asked about working together. This could be another pretty solid indicator that Marner is thinking long-term.

Marner still has one year remaining on his current deal, which carries a $10.9M cap hit. The hope is that the two sides can come to some sort of an agreement that works for everyone. With Matthews accepting a new deal with a modest raise of just $1.6M per season, perhaps Marner would be amenable to a similar raise, which would put him in the $12.5M AAV wheelhouse. Time will tell.