Maple Leafs struggling to replace Marner, Zeisberger says

Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Marner, Zeisberger Says

Mike Zeisberger, NHL.com staff writer, discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs' challenge of replacing Mitch Marner on the NHL @TheRink podcast. Marner departed Toronto this offseason via a sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights after nine seasons with the team.

Marner's New Season Performance

Marner is in the first season of an eight-year, $96 million contract with Vegas, tallying 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists) in 12 games so far.

Maple Leafs’ Current Statistics

The Leafs hold an 8-5-1 record after a 5-3 home win against the Utah Mammoth at Scotiabank Arena.
They rank third in the league for goals per game, averaging 3.62.
Defensively, they are 28th in goals-against, also at 3.62.
Their power play success rate is last in the league at 12.1%.

Marner’s Impact Last Season

Last season, Marner scored 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists), including a team-high 33 power play points (6 goals, 27 assists). Toronto's power play ranked tied for eighth in the NHL at 24.8%. Marner also finished seventh in the Selke Trophy voting as the league's top defensive forward.

Maple Leafs’ Roster Changes

The team added forwards Nicolas Roy (via the trade with Vegas), Matias Maccelli, Dakota Joshua, and promoted Easton Cowan from the AHL, but Zeisberger emphasized Marner's departure has left a significant gap in their top-six forwards.

"Myself personally, I'm not surprised."

Author's summary: Despite roster additions, the Maple Leafs are still struggling to compensate for Mitch Marner’s departure, highlighting a critical need in their top-six forwards.

NHL.com — 2025-11-06