Articles / Maple Leafs Miss Mitch Marner & Haven’t Done Enough to Replace Him

Maple Leafs Miss Mitch Marner & Haven’t Done Enough to Replace Him

T
The Hockey Writers
Nov 22, 2025 4:25 PM

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The Toronto Maple Leafs are reeling from the absence of Mitch Marner, who is sidelined due to injury. Marner, a key player for the Leafs, not only contributes to the team's offensive play but also brings an essential playmaking ability that has been missing since his injury. His teammates have struggled to fill the void, resulting in inconsistent performances on the ice.

Despite featuring a talented roster, the Maple Leafs have yet to find a way to effectively replace Marner's impact. The coaching staff has experimented with different line combinations, but the team has not achieved the desired results. The reliance on other stars, such as Auston Matthews and John Tavares, has increased, but the lack of secondary scoring options has become apparent. Fans are beginning to wonder if the team has done enough to prepare for such absences in their top players.

As the season progresses, the Maple Leafs must address their depth issues and find ways to bolster their lineup. This is essential not only for the immediate future while Marner is out but also for long-term success in the playoffs. The team needs to find creative solutions, possibly considering trades or call-ups from within the organization, to ensure they remain competitive during critical stretches of the season.

In this pivotal moment, the resilience of the Maple Leafs will be tested. The continued support of their fan base will be crucial as they navigate this challenging period without one of their key players. Toronto has the talent to succeed, but they must rise to the occasion and demonstrate their capability to adapt in Marner's absence.