Mitch Marner joins Vegas Golden Knights after a major sign-and-trade agreement with the Toronto Maple Leafs, finalizing an eight-year, $96 million contract just before he hit free agency. Speaking at his introductory press conference, Marner said he quickly chose Vegas once the team‘s interest was renewed, highlighting both his admiration for the city and a desire to play alongside Jack Eichel as reasons for the move.
Marner’s Enthusiasm for a New Start in Vegas
The transition marks a significant shift in Marner’s career, who made it clear he was determined to join the Golden Knights once conversations reignited. Marner noted that his decision was shaped by both the team‘s competitive culture and personal factors.
“This was a spot that was very high on my list,”
—Mitch Marner, winger.
“We wanted to come here. I went back to my agent and said, ‘I’m open to doing this if we can find a way to do it.’”
—Mitch Marner, winger.
While the appeal of Vegas itself played a role, Marner emphasized the team’s winning environment as a key reason for his eagerness. The organization’s recent attempts to acquire him affirmed the mutual interest and urgency heading into the off-season.
Jack Eichel’s Influence on Marner’s Choice
As he discussed joining the team, Marner pointed out how the chance to play with star forward Jack Eichel stood out. Their potential partnership was a significant factor in Marner’s decision-making process.
“I’m really looking forward to it, he’s an exceptional player,”
—Mitch Marner, winger. Marner highlighted Eichel’s skill set, work ethic, two-way play, and impressive playmaking, adding:
“So, I’m very excited to start working with him and try to figure out the chemistry quickly and get that rolling.”
—Mitch Marner, winger.
Jack Eichel, who has just one year left on his own contract before he becomes a free agent, will now join Marner for this critical upcoming season. Eichel is recognized as the Golden Knights’ top points producer, achieving a franchise-best 94 points in a single season and maintaining an exceptional 1.05 points-per-game rate.
Anticipation for Strong Locker Room Chemistry
Marner has expressed his excitement not just for on-ice chemistry but for building relationships within the team. He shared that conversations with other players who have been Eichel’s teammates painted a positive picture and deepened his anticipation for the new environment.
“I’ve talked to a couple of guys that have been his teammates and have said some unbelievable things about him as a human,”
—Mitch Marner, winger.
“So, I’m very much looking forward to being in the locker room with him, starting to learn tendencies of where he likes to be on the ice.”
—Mitch Marner, winger.
The two will have a full season to form a dynamic duo as the Golden Knights aim to repeat and build on their recent successes, with both Marner and Eichel entering pivotal moments in their careers. The organization, fans, and league observers will be watching closely as Marner and Eichel attempt to create one of the NHL’s top forward combinations, likely shaping the direction of both players and the Golden Knights franchise in the process.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did you know when you signed that you wouldn’t be allowed to wear 17? Mitch Marner, 16: I didn’t really pick it, to be honest with you. I just had it given. I had a couple options and 16 was the best one I liked.
A. Mitch Marner picked the number 16 because it has personal meaning to him. When he was growing up, 16 was his favorite number. He looked up to certain NHL players who also wore 16, which made him want it too. For these reasons, he chose to wear 16 throughout his hockey career.
Q. When did Mitch Marner get carjacked?
A. On the evening of May 16, Marner and another person were about to get into his 2021 black Land Rover. This happened near The Queensway and Islington Avenue in Etobicoke. Suddenly, a Honda Civic stopped in front of them, blocking their way. According to police, two men with handguns got out of the Honda and demanded that Marner give them his keys.
Q. Did Mitch Marner get carjacked?
A. Two men have been charged after being involved in two armed carjackings last year, according to police. One of these incidents happened to Mitch Marner, who plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. The men now face several charges related to these crimes. Police shared this information on Friday.