Mitch Marner will face off against his former team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, for the first time. The upcoming match will take place on Thursday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This marks a significant moment for Marner, who previously played nine seasons with the Maple Leafs.
Marner’s Move to the Golden Knights
Marner transitioned to the Vegas Golden Knights on July 1, following a sign-and-trade deal. This contract spans eight years, valued at $96 million, which averages out to $12 million annually. In his debut season with the Golden Knights, Marner has already tallied 47 points, consisting of 11 goals and 36 assists over 45 games.
Reflections Before the Game
Before the game against his former team, Marner focused on the present. Following Vegas’ 3-2 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Kings, he noted he would eventually think about the upcoming match. “I’m sure on the plane ride home it’s going to hit more that that’s Thursday night,” he said.
Legacy with the Maple Leafs
During his tenure in Toronto, Marner established himself as a key player. He accumulated 741 points, which includes 221 goals and 520 assists in 657 games. He ranks as the sixth all-time leading scorer for the Maple Leafs in regular season play and fifth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, with 63 points in 70 games.
Throughout his nine seasons, the Maple Leafs reached the playoffs each year. However, they advanced past the first round only twice, with one of those seasons being the most recent. Last season, the team was eliminated in the second round by the Florida Panthers.
Connections with Former Teammates
Marner remains close to several former teammates, including Auston Matthews and William Nylander. All three players are expected to represent their respective countries in the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. Marner will play for Canada, while Matthews and Nylander will represent the United States and Sweden, respectively.
- Mitch Marner: Joined the Golden Knights in July 2023.
- Contract: 8 years, $96 million.
- Past Season Points: 741 points in 657 games with Toronto.
- Current Season Points: 47 points in 45 games with Vegas.
- Olympic Representation: Canada – Marner, USA – Matthews, Sweden – Nylander.
As Marner prepares for this pivotal clash against the Toronto Maple Leafs, he is ready to treat it as just another game while cherishing the relationships he formed in Toronto.
