Maple Leafs Struggling After Marner’s Departure
NHL.com writer Mike Zeisberger discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs’ early-season challenges on the “NHL @TheRink” podcast, noting the team is still adapting to life without Mitch Marner. He suggested Toronto may need to explore trade options to fill the void left by Marner’s move to the Vegas Golden Knights.
Marner’s Impact in Vegas
Marner joined Vegas in the offseason through a sign-and-trade deal and has started strong, posting 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists) in 12 games. He is now in the first season of an eight-year, $96 million contract with an annual value of $12 million.
Toronto’s Current Performance
The Maple Leafs hold an 8-5-1 record following a 5-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena. Despite ranking third in the League for goals per game (3.62), Toronto struggles defensively, sitting 28th in goals against (3.62) and 30th on the power play at 12.1 percent efficiency.
Last Season’s Benchmark
During his final year with Toronto, Marner recorded 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists) and led the team with 33 points on the power play (6 goals, 27 assists), helping the unit finish tied for eighth in the NHL at 24.8 percent. He also ranked seventh in voting for the Selke Trophy as the League’s top defensive forward.
Roster Adjustments
Toronto responded by acquiring forwards Nicolas Roy, Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, while promoting Easton Cowan from the American Hockey League. Nonetheless, Zeisberger emphasized the team still lacks a dynamic presence in the top-six forward group.
“Myself personally, I'm not surprised,” said Zeisberger, referencing Toronto’s inconsistent results after losing such a pivotal player.
Author’s Summary
The Maple Leafs remain a strong offensive force, but Marner’s absence exposes key weaknesses in playmaking and defensive reliability that management must address soon.