Maple Leafs struggling to replace Marner, Zeisberger says

Maple Leafs Struggling to Replace Marner, Zeisberger Says

NHL.com staff writer Mike Zeisberger discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs’ challenges replacing Mitch Marner on this week's episode of the NHL @TheRink podcast. Marner, who played nine seasons with Toronto, left in the offseason via a sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights.

Marner's Impact and Current Performance

Marner signed an eight-year, $96 million contract with Vegas, averaging $12 million annually. In his first 12 games this season, he has recorded 14 points, including three goals and 11 assists.

Maple Leafs' Team Performance

The Maple Leafs currently have an 8-5-1 record after defeating the Utah Mammoth 5-3 at Scotiabank Arena. They rank third in the league for goals per game with 3.62 but stand 28th in goals against, also allowing 3.62 goals per game. Their power play effectiveness has dropped significantly to 12.1 percent, placing them last in the NHL.

Comparison to Last Season's Stats

Marner scored 102 points last season with Toronto (27 goals, 75 assists).
He led Toronto in power play points with 33 (six goals, 27 assists).
The Leafs’ power play success rate was 24.8 percent, tied for eighth in the NHL.
Marner was seventh in Selke Trophy voting as the best defensive forward in the league.

Maple Leafs' Roster Changes

Toronto has added forwards Nicolas Roy (acquired from Vegas), Matias Maccelli, and Dakota Joshua, and promoted Easton Cowan from the AHL to fill gaps. However, Zeisberger emphasized that Marner’s exit has left a significant void in the top-six forward group.

“Myself personally, I'm not surprised.”

Zeisberger’s comments suggest the team may need to explore the trade market to compensate for Marner’s departure.

Author’s Summary

Toronto struggles to fill the significant void left by Mitch Marner’s departure, impacting their scoring depth and power play efficiency despite some roster additions.

NHL.com — 2025-11-06