Maple Leafs Struggling After Marner’s Departure
Toronto Maple Leafs are still adjusting to life without Mitch Marner, according to NHL.com writer Mike Zeisberger on the latest episode of the "NHL @TheRink" podcast. The team may soon explore trade options to recover part of what Marner contributed over his nine seasons in Toronto.
Marner’s Move to Vegas
Marner joined the Vegas Golden Knights this offseason in a sign-and-trade deal. In his debut season with Vegas, he has recorded 14 points (three goals and 11 assists) across 12 games under an eight-year, $96 million contract, averaging $12 million per year.
Toronto’s Current Situation
Following a 5–3 victory over the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena, the Maple Leafs hold an 8–5–1 record. They rank third in the NHL for goals per game (3.62) but struggle defensively, sitting 28th in goals-against (3.62) and 30th on the power play (12.1 percent).
Marner’s Past Impact
Last season, Marner tallied 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists) and led the team with 33 points on the power play (six goals, 27 assists). Toronto’s power play then stood at 24.8 percent, tied for eighth in the league. His defensive game also earned him a seventh-place finish in Selke Trophy voting.
Team Adjustments
To fill the void, Toronto added forwards Nicolas Roy (from Vegas), Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, and promoted Easton Cowan from the AHL. Still, the loss of Marner has left a visible gap in their top-six forward unit.
“Myself personally, I'm not surprised,” said Zeisberger, referring to the Maple Leafs’ offensive imbalance after Marner’s exit.
Author’s Summary
The Maple Leafs remain offensively solid but lack Marner’s creativity and defensive presence, leaving a key gap that new additions have yet to fully cover.