Yes Leafs fans, I am back for yet another season of pure and utter torture cheering for our beloved Toronto Maple Leafs.
My offseason hiatus has been nothing shy of reflective and recharged my battery just enough to endure yet another long season as a loyal Leafs fan. That said, as the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for the 2024-2025 NHL season, one of the key storylines revolves around superstar winger Mitch Marner.
No, we will not be spending an entire article talking about him on a jet ski or him with Justin Holl. I prefer not to criticize Marner for having a “Hot Leaf Summer” (I hope you cringed as much reading that as I did writing it) but instead talk about his pending bounce-back campaign with the Maple Leafs.
After facing much criticism last season for not living up to his usual high standards (though he scored at his usual 100 points pace) I believe that Marner is poised to return to form and play a pivotal role in the Leafs quest for success, and here is why.
Mitch Marner needs career season for the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2024-2025
Let’s start with the fact that Mitch Marner has always been a player who thrives under pressure and loves the spotlight. Last season’s criticisms and the resulting media scrutiny have undoubtedly added fuel to his fire. Marner is determined to prove his doubters wrong and re-establish himself as one of the league’s elite forwards. This added motivation will drive him to perform at his best, especially in crucial moments where his skill and creativity can make a difference.
Now let’s address the elephant in the room, Marner’s contract. At 27 years old, Marner is entering the prime of his career. That said, Marner will be heading into the final season of his 10.9 Million dollar contract that he signed back in 2019.
This means that when the final buzzer goes (and the Leafs hoist the Stanley Cup) Marner will become a Free Agent looking to test the open market next summer. A 28-year-old winger of superstar caliber would have any team chomping at the bit to sign him to help bolster their offensive cores going forward. Performing well will not only help the Leafs this season but Marner as well.
To conclude, Mitch Marner is going to have a career season with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2024-2025. His refined training, maturity, strengthened chemistry with teammates, leadership on-ice, and motivation from critics are all factors that point to a standout campaign. Although we will have to wait another month until the official NHL Season begins, there is no doubt in my mind that Marner will be the Leafs best player this season.