Marner is a premier playmaker entering his prime years. He is one player I would not want to see go anywhere even with his salary where it is. Dare I say, I would place him close to Adam Oates in playmaking ability and Oates is in the HOF, not because of his goal scoring or the number of times his name is in the Stanley Cup, but due to his ability to set up quality goal scorers.
Marner has better numbers than Oates in their respective first 4 seasons in the NHL. In fact, Oates only started in the league when he was 23 years old. Only 23 years of age now, I really think Marner will have better career numbers than Oates. Yes, goal scoring is important but don’t underestimate Marner’s playmaking intelligence and imagination. Plus, he can play at even strength, power play and penalty situations. Also love the fact he is a GTA boy.