Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Marner, Zeisberger Says
The Toronto Maple Leafs are feeling the impact of Mitch Marner's departure and may need to explore trades to fill the gap left by his nine seasons with the team, according to NHL.com staff writer Mike Zeisberger on the "NHL @TheRink" podcast.
Marner's Departure and Current Performance
Marner left Toronto this offseason in a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. In the first year of his eight-year, $96 million contract, he has tallied 14 points (three goals, 11 assists) in 12 games.
Maple Leafs’ Current Stats
- Record: 8-5-1 after a 5-3 victory against the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena.
- Goals per game: Third in the league with 3.62.
- Goals against: Ranked 28th, allowing 3.62 per game.
- Power play success: Last in the league at 12.1%.
Marner's Contribution Last Season
Marner recorded 102 points last season, including 27 goals and 75 assists. He led Toronto with 33 points on the power play, which had a success rate of 24.8%, tying for eighth in the NHL. Additionally, he was seventh in the voting for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s best defensive forward.
Team Additions and Challenges
The Maple Leafs have added forwards Nicolas Roy (acquired from Vegas), Matias Maccelli, Dakota Joshua, and promoted Easton Cowan from the AHL. However, Zeisberger emphasizes that Marner’s exit has created a significant gap in the top-six forward lines that still needs addressing.
"Myself personally, I'm not surprised."
— Mike Zeisberger, NHL.com staff writer
Author's Summary
The Maple Leafs’ quest to replace Marner highlights challenges on offense and defense, underscoring the need to rebuild key forward roles to remain competitive.