I doubt that Marner signs here for reasons already stated, but I also assume players look at opportunity and role on a team. Yes, Marner and Kadri are friends, but Kadri (will be) 35. Does Marner really pick Calgary so he can play with #1 center Kadri? Do the Flames have a shot at winning the cup next year with Marner? It just doesn't seem very appealing to him at this point, unless the Flames offer him a max deal (which would be terrible).
I would assume that Marner would want to play with a high-end center somewhere. San Jose pops to mind - team that is looking to rise, can give him a huge pay day, and he gets to play with Celebrini. On a lesser note, Chicago - if Chicago can convince Marner that the team is poised to rise, and they manage to also sign some other names (maybe Bennett too) - he probably goes there. Carolina will probably offer him a contract after missing out on Rantanen (and making an offer for Marner already).
If Dino's info is true, and he already turned down a 13.5 deal (which I assume would be 8 years), then there is no way he is coming here to Calgary for 13.5 million on 7 years. He either wants a favourable spot, or wants more money, or both. Maybe he thinks he can get 16x7 with the cap about to explode, while being the biggest name available this season.
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