The Toronto Maple Leafs are likely out of the running for forward Sam Bennett when free agency opens on July 1st, according to James Mirtle of The Athletic. Mirtle suggests Bennett will either re-sign with the Florida Panthers or pursue a lucrative contract with a team possessing significant cap space, potentially the Utah Hockey Club.

Meanwhile, there's speculation that the Maple Leafs might make a unique contract offer to Brad Marchand. The proposed deal would be heavily front-loaded, potentially reaching $11 million in the first year. However, one host believes Marchand would be "nuts" to leave the Florida Panthers.

The future of Mitch Marner in Toronto remains uncertain. Reports indicate that the Maple Leafs and Marner's camp have not engaged in contract discussions and are expected to part ways. Marner is likely to explore his options on the open market, with potential interest from teams like the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, and Vegas Golden Knights. He might consider a shorter-term deal to maximize his future earnings potential.

Defenseman Morgan Rielly's future with the Maple Leafs is also subject to speculation. While there are no current indications that the team is looking to trade him, Mirtle suggests that could change if Rielly's performance continues to decline.

In other NHL news, Buffalo Sabres winger JJ Peterka is reportedly attracting trade interest. After initially rejecting offers, the Sabres are now listening to potential deals for the young forward. It's believed that Peterka is unhappy and desires a change of scenery. However, the Sabres are expected to seek a player-for-player swap rather than draft picks or prospects in any potential trade.

The New York Rangers have traded Chris Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks to create cap flexibility. The Rangers received prospect Carey Terrance and a third-round pick in the deal, while Anaheim also acquired a fourth-round pick. The Ducks are taking on the full remainder of Kreider's contract, which carries a $6.5 million cap hit for the next two seasons. The Rangers are now positioned to be aggressive in free agency and are able to present offer sheets. K'Andre Miller may also be on the move out of New York.

Matthew Knies of the Toronto Maple Leafs could be a prime offer sheet target, according to Frank Seravalli. He projects that the 23-year-old power forward could receive a five-year offer worth an average annual value of $11.7 million.