In early July, former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner officially joined the Vegas Golden Knights under a sign-and-trade agreement, signing an eight-year deal worth $96 million. The Maple Leafs received center Nicolas Roy in exchange. Marner, protected by a full no-move clause, had been linked to a possible trade for months, with the Golden Knights emerging as his preferred destination.
Reports indicate that Vegas had targeted Marner since the previous summer. During a TSN ‘OverDrive’ segment, NHL analyst Bryan Hayes criticized how the Maple Leafs managed the situation, calling it “significant malpractice.”
“I am curious, I would love to get an answer on what Shanahan and Treliving knew this time last year,” said Hayes. “Did they know he was out? You’re hearing stories of ‘everyone knows. everyone knows he’s going to Vegas. If they knew that, then that is significant malpractice.”
“If you’re so unhappy, why don’t you go ask for a change? Why is it on the Leafs to force your way out?” he added.
Hayes suggests that the Leafs could have traded Marner last summer to potentially gain more value before his no-move clause became fully effective, implying a missed opportunity by the team’s front office.
Mitch Marner’s Impact and Playoff History in Toronto
Selected fourth overall in the 2015 NHL Draft by Toronto, Mitch Marner spent nine seasons with the Maple Leafs, compiling 741 points (221 goals and 520 assists) across 657 regular-season games. He currently ranks fifth in franchise scoring history. Despite his offensive contributions, Marner’s time with Toronto was marked by repeated playoff disappointments, as the team never advanced beyond the second round during his tenure.
Marner’s transition to the 2023 Stanley Cup champion Golden Knights boosts their lineup significantly. The sign-and-trade allowed Vegas to lock in Marner for eight years, a scenario unavailable in open free agency, providing the player with long-term security.
In the recent playoffs, Marner recorded 13 points, contributing two goals and 11 assists in 13 games. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs were ousted by the Florida Panthers in a seven-game second-round series.
Looking Ahead: What the Departure Means for the Maple Leafs and Marner
Mitch Marner’s departure from Toronto raises questions about the Maple Leafs’ player management and trade strategies, especially considering Bryan Hayes’ comments highlighting front office missteps. Securing Nicolas Roy presents a new chapter for the Leafs, though many will debate whether the return reflects Marner’s value at the trade time.
For the Golden Knights, acquiring a skilled forward like Marner strengthens their roster as they aim to defend their Stanley Cup title. His long-term contract suggests Vegas views him as a foundational player moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Mitch Marner so good?
A. Marner uses his calmness, awareness, and creative thinking to help his teammates move quickly and freely, making the other team uneasy.
Q. Did Mitch Marner play AAA?
A. Mitchell went back to Clarington when he was six and attempted to join the Novice AAA team. Although he scored the most during tryouts, the coach and executives in Clarington felt he wasn’t mentally prepared to play. As a result, Mitch joined the Novice AAA team with the Lindsay Wolves when he was six.