Former Leafs Star Shares His Thoughts on the Current Faces of the Team

PUBLICATION

Mackenzie Stern-Kolesnikow
March 16, 2023 (10:26)

SHARE THIS STORY

During Monday's game where the Sabres played against the Leafs, an interview with Wendel Clark was shown. During this discussion, he talked about several issues about the Leafs and current players from his perspective as a former member of the Leafs

The conversation covered a variety of topics, including what his experience was like playing with the Leafs. He also talked about how Mitch Marner and Doug Gilmour share a few characteristics, the physicality of Auston Matthews during the post season, how skilled Toronto's depth players are, and the amazing play of William Nylander.

Here are a few important points that Clark discussed

What it was like playing for the Leafs

Clark shared that he experiences a unique energy at every Toronto game. He talked about how the passionate fan base the team has, the high level of media coverage and the long history of the team contribute to this special energy. Each player that is drafted or traded to the Leafs experiences a certain level of excitement and pressure.

Clark said that this special energy is what separates Toronto from other teams, every game feels like a playoff game at Toronto. Clark noted that Toronto can be a great place to play if you can thrive in this type of environment.

The similarities between Doug Gilmore and Mitch Marner

Clark believes that the two players share a number of similar characteristics, he explained that both players have an excellent on-ice vision, this on-ice vision allows both of the players to read plays in order to create scoring opportunities. He also said that both players can distribute the puck skilfully, this helps them set their linemates up.

He also noted that both players share a similar versatility. Clark explained that Gilmour could fill any role needed and would easily adapt to lineup changes.

He called Marner an energy guy who can play wherever he is needed. He noted that both Marner and Gilmour have played with a lot of different lines.

Finally, Clark noted that both players work well under pressure. Gilmour was known for his tenacity, and that he was always ready to make big plays when the team needed them. Clark said that Marner shows the same tenacity.

Despite the fact that Gilmour and Marner have different styles of play, these characteristics that they share are what made both players successful in the NHL.

Auston Matthews and his physicality during the postseason

Clark believes that Matthews is a skilled and talented player. Both Clark and Matthews are tough guys, Clark recalled that teams would target him during the playoffs. Clark believes that Matthews will also be targeted during the playoffs, but he believes that it will be difficult to target him due to his size and strength.

Clark emphasized the importance that the team should protect Matthews, Clark noted that the Leafs have players that can protect Matthews, as well as players that can score.

How the Leafs depth can benefit them in the playoffs

Clark seems optimistic that the Leafs are capable of making a deep playoff run. He believes the team has the skill, physicality and the experience to make it happen.

Clark stated that having a strong depth is important for playoff success. Clark complimented the team's roster, he acknowledged the depth players who provide a good mix of skill, physicality and energy.

Clark's thoughts on William Nylander

Clark said that Nylander is a highly skilled player who has a talent for creating offensive plays, he believes that Nylander brings the different parts of the team together on the ice.

He also complimented Nylander's ability to play on any line, he has the speed and skill to keep up with line 1, but he also has the gamesense and creativity to work with the bottom 6 lines.

Clark warns other teams to watch out for Nylander's skill on the ice, due to his scoring abilities he does not need a lot of chances to make a difference on the ice.

Clark is still a Leafs' fan

Clark saw a lot of success with the Leafs, he was their first overall draft pick in 1985, he spent a total of 13 seasons with the Leafs and was the team captain from 1991 to 1994.

Clark is regarded as one of the greatest players in the Leaf's history, known for his physical style of play. Even in his retirement, he still keeps up with the team and still cheers his team on in the playoffs.

As seen on Thehockeywriters - Ex-Maple Leaf Wendel Clark Weighs in on Current Leafs Stars