Recently on the Andy Strickland podcast, former Leafs and Lightning defenseman Zach Bogosian defended Mitch Marner against criticism. Bogosian argued that the intense backlash Marner faces from Leafs fans and media is unwarranted. He pointed out that even when criticized for not taking hits in the playoffs, Marner’s evasive style is akin to Nikita Kucherov’s, who also avoids contact strategically.

The criticism of Marner has become excessive. His social media posts are met with negativity, his charity work is overshadowed by trade rumors, and his on-ice performance is constantly scrutinized. While I was initially critical of Marner, especially during the “Marner vs Nylander” debates, I’ve come to realize that hockey is a team sport and blaming one player won’t solve the team’s issues.

The Leafs are likely to re-sign Marner, and losing him would probably make things worse. As history shows, teams often struggle before they succeed, and even stars like Stamkos and Ovechkin faced criticism before their teams won.

On the ice, Marner is a highly valuable player with excellent playmaking, possession, defensive skills, and shooting ability. Not every player can be a hard-hitting grinder, and Craig Berube’s support is a good sign for Marner’s future with the Leafs.

In other news, Auston Matthews is set to be announced as the new captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, taking over from John Tavares. The focus will shift to the assignment of the alternate captain roles, particularly in relation to Marner.

Additionally, the St. Louis Blues made a couple of moves: they reacquired their 2025 second-round pick from the Pittsburgh Penguins and then signed Oilers RFAs Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg to offer sheets. If the Oilers want to keep both players, they’ll need to clear about $7 million in cap space; otherwise, they’ll receive draft picks as compensation.