Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Marner, Zeisberger Says
NHL.com staff writer Mike Zeisberger discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs’ challenges replacing Mitch Marner on the latest episode of the NHL @TheRink podcast.
Marner's Departure and Impact
Marner left Toronto this offseason in a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. He has recorded 14 points (three goals, 11 assists) in 12 games during the first season of his eight-year, $96 million contract with Vegas.
Last season in Toronto, Marner tallied 102 points, including 27 goals and 75 assists. On the power play, he had a team-high 33 points and the Maple Leafs finished with a power play success rate of 24.8%, ranking eighth in the NHL. He was also seventh in Selke Trophy voting as the league’s best defensive forward.
Maple Leafs' Current Performance
The Maple Leafs currently hold an 8-5-1 record following a 5-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena. They rank third in the league for goals per game (3.62) but struggle defensively, sitting 28th in goals against (3.62) and last in power play efficiency at 12.1%.
Efforts to Fill Marner's Role
Toronto has added forwards Nicolas Roy (acquired from Vegas), Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, while promoting Easton Cowan from the AHL. Despite these moves, Zeisberger noted that Marner’s departure has created a significant gap in the top-six forward group.
“Myself personally, I'm not surprised.”
Summary
Indeed, the Leafs may have to explore the trade market soon to compensate for the loss of a key player like Marner.
Author's summary: The Maple Leafs face challenges replacing Mitch Marner’s offensive and defensive contributions despite new additions, potentially turning to trades to fill the void.