Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Mitch Marner
The Toronto Maple Leafs are feeling the impact of losing Mitch Marner after he departed via a sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights this offseason. Marner had been a key player for the team over nine seasons, and replacing his production has proven challenging, according to NHL.com staff writer Mike Zeisberger on the NHL @TheRink podcast.
Marner's Current Performance and Contract
Marner is off to a strong start with Vegas, recording 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists) in 12 games during the first year of his eight-year, $96 million contract, which carries an average annual value of $12 million.
Maple Leafs' Team Performance
- The Leafs hold an 8-5-1 record after a 5-3 win against the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena.
- They rank third in the NHL in goals per game with 3.62.
- However, they rank 28th in goals against, also at 3.62.
- The power play is struggling, sitting last in the league at 12.1% efficiency.
Marner's Impact Last Season
Last year, Marner tallied 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists), including a team-high 33 power play points (6 goals, 27 assists). The Leafs' power play operated at 24.8%, tied for eighth in the NHL. Marner also finished seventh in Selke Trophy voting as the league’s top defensive forward.
Challenges After Marner's Departure
The Maple Leafs brought in forwards Nicolas Roy (via Vegas trade), Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, and promoted Easton Cowan from the American Hockey League. Still, Zeisberger emphasized that Marner’s exit created a notable void in the top-six forward group that needs addressing.
"Myself personally, I'm not surprised."
This sentiment underscores the difficulty the team faces in compensating for Marner’s multifaceted contributions.
Author's Summary
The Maple Leafs are grappling with filling the significant offensive and defensive void left by Mitch Marner’s departure, impacting both their scoring depth and special teams.
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