Mitch Marner addressed the media ahead of his first game in Toronto since joining the Vegas Golden Knights. He faced the Toronto Maple Leafs last week in Vegas, when they picked up a 6-5 win in overtime.
Although tonight marks his first game back in Toronto as a member of the opposing team, Marner isn’t reflecting on the past. Instead, he admitted that he remains focused on the task at hand and securing two points on the road for Vegas.
“I don’t look back anymore, don’t want to look in the past. I feel like if you look back, you’ll not focus on what’s in front of you,” Marner said during a media scrum ahead of tonight’s game. “It’s another hockey game. Realistically, it’s another hockey game to just play and try to do what you usually do to help win a hockey game.”
Marner will likely receive a video tribute at some point during tonight’s game. However, the fan reaction is expected to be mixed.
Mitch Marner Prepared for Emotional Response From Fans in First Game in Toronto
Mitch Marner said that he is prepared for an emotional response from the fans in attendance at Scotiabank Arena tonight. It is his first game back, so fans will likely boo him whenever he touches the puck.
Marner’s departure carried mixed emotions because of reports that he refused to waive his no-trade clause last season. Additionally, the Leafs suffered an embarrassing loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 7 of the 2nd round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. That loss fueled anger and heavily criticism of the core players, including Marner.
Speaking to reporters, Marner admitted that playing at Scotiabank Arena again is exciting. That said, he understands that fans may be more emotional.
“Not sure [what it’s going to be like in the arena], we’ll see as soon as warmup starts. But yeah, just excited to go back [to Scotiabank Arena]. That building’s meant a lot to me, so I’m excited to be going back to it and playing in it,” Marner said. “Maybe in way [some fans will boo]. They’re gonna try to do their thing to get me off my game and try and win their own game.”
Marner Admits Maple Leafs’ Video Tribute Will be Emotional
Marner also admitted that he is expecting the Leafs’ video tribute to make him emotional. The Leafs are his hometown team and one he supported growing up, which may lead to a more emotional reaction.
During his pre-game media scrum, Marner said that it has been something he has not focused on too much. However, he expressed gratitude for his time with the Leafs.
“I’m trying not to think [about the video tribute] too much. You know, I’m sure it’ll really hit once it starts going and stuff like that, but I’m trying not to think about it too much,” Marner said. “I think it’s gonna be a cool moment. I’m gonna try to enjoy it and then try to get back to hockey right away.”
“I know it’s gonna be maybe a weird, cool, and special all in one.”
Mitch Marner Breaks Silence on First Game in Toronto as a Golden Knight