As the clock ticks down to July 1, it seems the Toronto Maple Leafs are poised to bid farewell to star player Mitch Marner as he becomes an unrestricted free agent. This reality opens a floodgate of questions about what led to this moment, whether parting ways is truly beneficial for both parties, and if this could have been avoided. Most urgently, fans are anxious to know where Marner might land next.

James Mirtle recently attempted to tackle this very question, assessing all 32 possible teams where Marner might sign. Strangely enough, while it’s clear most hockey fans are holding their breath, the focus quickly shifts from the analysis to an intriguing aspect of the drama: the villain.

If Marner were to turn his back on a Toronto fan base that has largely supported him, he might as well embrace the role of the villain. So, let's delve into the rankings of his potential destinations, quantifying how painful each choice would be for Leafs Nation's loyal supporters.

16. Columbus Blue Jackets

It’s almost predictable that Columbus would be on this list. After the heartbreak of last summer’s Johnny Gaudreau saga, fans here deserve some good fortune—Marner could be that final piece to deliver some joy.

15. Utah Mammoth

Yes, it may be difficult for Marner to argue 'I just want to win a Cup' when joining a new market like Utah. However, after nine years in the Toronto spotlight, moving to a place that would cherish a legitimate star could be appealing.

14. Anaheim Ducks & 13. San Jose Sharks

Two young teams, neither of which is burdened by immediate playoff expectations. Far away from the Toronto limelight, Marner would have the chance to rebuild his career with less pressure.

12. Chicago Blackhawks

Joining a team with a generational talent like Connor Bedard sounds enticing, but what about the backlash from the ranting fans back home?

11. Los Angeles Kings

The Kings offer a big-market appeal but with less immediate success. If you’re a Leafs fan harboring resentment over past grievances, you might find peace in this pairing.

10. A Mystery Team

Surprises happen in free agency. While there are long shots, a mystery team could take Marner off the board in a thrilling twist that many Leafs fans might initially bristle at.

9. Nashville Predators

Let’s not even begin the discussion about tax rates, shall we?

8. Colorado Avalanche

Marner joining a Cup contender like Colorado could signify a surrender to team roles. He may take a back seat to Rantanen, but a ring would look good on anyone.

7. Detroit Red Wings

A puzzling option given Detroit’s current standing. While they lack immediate star players, signing here could spark speculation that Marner chose to chase a fat paycheck over a championship.

6. Boston Bruins

We get it, constant playoff critiques can wear anyone down. But this would certainly be a tough pill for Toronto fans to swallow.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs

Could there be anything more maddening than Marner convincing the Leafs' management to hand him another over-market contract? Or signing a hometown deal while claiming he never wanted to leave? Talk about a social media meltdown.

4. Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes were in talks with Marner at the trade deadline, only for him to decline. If he later signed with them, it would definitely intensify the rivalry and anger from Leafs fans.

3. Vegas Golden Knights

Could Marner take a discount to join this established winner? If so, it would not sit well with Toronto fans who remember his previous contract negotiations.

2. Tampa Bay Lightning

Another deep rival, a potential playoff foe. If Marner shines here, the narrative would be even harder for Leafs fans to digest.

1. Florida Panthers

Signing with the team you couldn’t beat? That's the ultimate betrayal. Combine that with Florida’s tax advantages, and it could potentially shatter Toronto’s already fragile morale. Marner, this decision could define your career!