Fans are going to rightfully shit all over Marner. I don't even care. He has value, he is a 90+ winger for god sakes and there are a lot of teams who would kill for the offense to help sniff a playoff spot. Those are the teams I am calling.
If CBJ didn't have Gaudreau I could see them as a fit. Instead I think the Sharks with Smith and whoever else, Hawks with Bedard, Ducks with Carlsson all could have real value from Marner.
As for what they give up? I don't really care. Would be happy with a few draft picks or prospects. A team willing to get Marner for a 2nd and a decent prospect is going to do it. Hell I'd take a late first and a small short term cap dump back.
You are correct, we will just wait for him to hit free agency.
Fans always say this and it never happens. Teams get the guy they want every single year.