Marner is Versatile and Plays a Balanced Game To blame Marner in the wake of such an unworldly “goalie-on-fire” postseason aberration seems more than a bit illogical.
RED MAPLE LEAF HAT SERIES
Until Bobrovsky allowed three goals in the Panthers’ final game in their series sweep of the Hurricanes, since Game 1 of the second round against the Maple Leafs, Bobrovsky did not allow more than two goals in any game, saving 296 of 309 shots. While critics point out that Marner wilted against the Florida Panthers in the second round of the 2023 Playoffs, so did everyone else against the wall that Panthers’ goalie Sergei Bobrovsky threw up. His 14 points in 11 playoff games in 2022-23 further suggest he’s a clutch player who makes a playoff difference.
Although in this post, I’ll talk about the regular season, it’s worth noting that Marner has picked up his game in all areas. He’s growing in his ability to thrive under postseason pressure. Marner’s postseason performances have also been better than he’s been given credit for. My prediction is that, instead of inching forward, Marner - even though he scored 99 points last season - will increase that number by at least 10 percent to end up between 110 and 120 points by the end of 2023-24. Related: 10 Greatest Pittsburgh Penguins in Franchise History I’m willing to bet that this season he sees an opportunity and a need (from what I believe is his perspective) to increase his production even more. The transition from 61 points to 99 points in just six seasons shows his ability to both grow with his team and adapt to the game’s challenges. Mitch Marner, Toronto Maple Leafs ( Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
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