Two seasons ago, it was Auston Matthews scoring five goals and nine points in six games against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the postseason. John Tavares, clinched that series with the game-winning goal in overtime. Even when he dealt with migraines, William Nylander returned and scored three goals in four games against the Boston Bruins. All of which came in Game 6 and 7.Â
Members of this core have shown to breakout and shine in big and key moments during the postseason. While Mitch Marner has 50 points in 57 career playoff games, he has yet to standout and have that big time moment in a do-or-die game compared to the other players in the postseason. For all the past criticisms that he has faced, Marner has seen some success at key points in critical moments this season alone.Â
That alone should give him some reassurance that he can be a game breaker when it matters most and put the team on his back. With his contract year coming to an end and free agency looming, he’s finally standing out and not being quiet in key moments in a game. That is why this postseason is the perfect time for him to rise above and be a key performer and the reason that the team wins a game in the playoffs.
Marner Previously Shined in Big Moments
Even though many are waiting for that moment for Marner to take control over in the playoffs, his play and ability to show up at key moments during the regular season is an important first step. The biggest moment for him was during the Four Nations Faceoff, scoring in overtime against Sweden and setting up Connor McDavid for the game-winner.Â
Those were big game moments where if he needed to make a statement, that was the perfect time and could prepare him for what could be in store in the postseason. However, that same game-breaking presence has been apparent down this final stretch of games against some potential playoff opponents.Â
Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs shots before scoring against Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins during the third period in Game Four of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs (Photo by Mark Blinch/NHLI via Getty Images)
During their California road trip, Marner scored early in the second period on a breakaway outmuscling Anaheim Ducks defender Radko Gudas. The Ducks were in the midst of fighting for their playoff lives at the moment. He then rose to the occasion against an even more lethal opponent against the Florida Panthers. He not only scored a goal, but he had an amazing breakout pass to connect with Matthew Knies that would serve as the eventual game-winning goal.Â
Even though he went quiet against their second matchup against the Panthers where the team lacked any sort of physicality or momentum, he had a strong response against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He scored 1:13 into the game and recorded two assists, with the top line being a big reason why they won and Knies getting a hat-trick.Â
Related: 5 Surprises Shaping the Maple Leafs’ Playoff Push
Against two potential playoff opponents, Marner showed what he’s capable of when he’s driven, buzzing and creating havoc for the opposition. His creativity showed and although he would like to have the clearing attempt that led to the Victor Hedman goal back, he was noticeable and a big reason why they won the game.Â
To be that impactful with a handful of games remaining is definitely a positive sign to see for a player that has come under scrutiny for a lack of showing up when it matters most.Â
Marner’s Opportunity to Silence Doubters
Marner has faced a lot of noise during the postseason and when you get paid close to $11 million to not take that next step when the games and your play matter most, that is concerning. However, he has done a great job to play to his capabilities and elevate his play as a two-way playmaker that earns a lot of minutes.
Even with his impending free-agency and possible contract extension, it’s not a distraction for him. He has gone about his business and has played to a high level every night. He has stated that he’s here to win and that is his main focus. With all the noise, he has done a great job of not losing his focus and pushing forward. He has been a game-breaker to this point and a big reason why the Maple Leafs have the potential for an easier path in the postseason. Even when other players have taken over a game, his play has kind of flown under the radar with the plays that he has created. Â
Mitch Marner, Toronto Maple Leafs (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
From killing penalties, to using his speed and edges in the corner to win battles is a big factor for the team’s success. We’re even starting to see glimpses of some tenacity in his game. He’s not the kind of player to mix things up, but at some point, you have to go above and beyond and show the opposition that he isn’t going to be pushed around. The timely stick lifts to regain possesion, the ability to get around players and continue to make his presence felt hasn’t gone unnoticed at this time.Â
Which is why with his confidence during the last few weeks, Marner’s time to shine in the postseason is now. Marner is on the verge of his first 100-point season and it’s fair to say that he has been the team’s best forward this season. The consistency in the regular season should carry over for him into the playoffs as he can’t lose sight of that.Â
Related: Two Areas the Maple Leafs Are Different This Time Around Heading Into Playoffs
Marner has been consistent all season long and now it’s time for him to for once show that in the postseason. If there’s any player of the core four to step up and be the go-to player this time around, it’s him. As we all know, the playoffs are a different animal. If he can take a massive step forward with his play like he has lately, the Maple Leafs could go on a deep run and he will play a big part of that.
