Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Mitch Marner, Zeisberger Says
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing challenges after losing Mitch Marner, and they may need to explore trades to compensate for his contributions over the past nine seasons, according to NHL.com staff writer Mike Zeisberger on the latest episode of the NHL @TheRink podcast.
Marner’s Departure and Current Performance
Marner left Toronto this offseason via a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights. In the current season, under an eight-year, $96 million contract with an average annual value of $12 million, Marner has amassed 14 points (three goals, 11 assists) in 12 games.
Maple Leafs' Team Statistics
- The Leafs hold an 8-5-1 record after a 5-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena.
- They are third in the League for goals per game, averaging 3.62.
- However, defensively they rank 28th in goals-against, also at 3.62 per game.
- The power play effectiveness is currently 12.1%, placing them 30th in the NHL.
Marner’s Impact Last Season
In the previous season, Marner tallied 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists). He led Toronto with 33 power play points (six goals, 27 assists) contributing to a power play success rate of 24.8%, which was tied for eighth in the NHL.
He was seventh in Selke Trophy voting as the League’s best defensive forward.
Maple Leafs’ Adjustments
To mitigate Marner's absence, the Leafs have added forwards Nicolas Roy (acquired in the trade with Vegas), Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, and have promoted Easton Cowan from the American Hockey League. Despite these moves, Zeisberger noted Marner’s departure created a noticeable gap in the top-six forward group.
"Myself personally, I'm not surprised."
Author’s summary: The Maple Leafs are struggling to fill the significant void left by Mitch Marner, highlighting the need for strategic moves to strengthen their offensive and defensive units.
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