Mitch Marner’s first public comments as a newly signed member of the Vegas Golden Knights included a mention of conversations he had with former Toronto Maple Leafs teammates Ryan Reaves and Max Pacioretty. The discussions, which took place in late June and centered around life in Las Vegas, upset some Maple Leafs fans.
Many felt Marner had already emotionally checked out of Toronto weeks before officially leaving, a frustration only compounded by news that he had been speaking with Vegas players as early as February during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
Reaves Defends Advice to Marner, Highlights Stark Contrast Between Toronto and Vegas
In response to the backlash, Ryan Reaves addressed the issue on the Leafs Morning Take podcast. He defended his role in advising Marner, clarifying that he was simply being supportive of a close friend who was facing free agency.
Reaves stated that his bond with Marner was strong and that he saw no wrongdoing in giving honest advice about living in Las Vegas, where he had spent four years. Reaves emphasized that withholding his opinion just because he was under contract with Toronto would have been dishonest to someone he considers a close friend.
Mitch Marner (NHL)Just before being traded to the San Jose Sharks, Reaves appeared on the Cam & Strick podcast and discussed the intensity of the Toronto hockey market. He expressed surprise at how quickly fans could turn on the team, particularly during playoff struggles.
Reaves contrasted this with his experience in Vegas, portraying it as a more relaxed and enjoyable environment, with less pressure from fans and media. His comments highlighted a significant cultural difference between the two cities and how that impacts players’ day-to-day lives.
Reaves Stresses Loyalty to Marner, Marner’s Departure Marks End of Leafs Era
Reaves reiterated that his advice to Marner was not an attempt to lure him away from the Maple Leafs but a sincere and personal conversation between friends. He described Vegas as a city he genuinely enjoyed and noted that he had no interest in manipulating the situation or undermining the Toronto organization.
His priority, he claimed, was honesty and loyalty to Marner, not the opinions of critics or the expectations of Maple Leafs supporters.
Mitch Marner’s exit from Toronto came through a sign-and-trade deal that sent him to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for forward Nicolas Roy. Marner then signed an eight-year, $96 million contract with Vegas.
His departure marked the end of a significant era, as he left the Maple Leafs ranked fifth in all-time franchise points, with 741 points in nine seasons. While the move sparked emotional responses from fans, Marner’s legacy as a homegrown star remains an important chapter in the Maple Leafs’ history.
