Insider Darren Dreger Finally Uncovers the Truth Behind Mitch Marner's Absence
NHL Hockey Insider Darren Dreger gave some insight into the extent of Mitch Marner's injury and his potential status for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off.
With the concerning news that the Maple Leafs are going to be without Mitch Marner due to a lower body injury, there are many fans worried about how the team is going to fare without him, and if it's going to be a detriment going forward.
While the team was able to persevere against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday, it's still worrying that Marner; who has been such a key factor in Toronto's success, is hurt.
But according to NHL Hockey Insider Darren Dreger, Leafs fans shouldn't have to worry too much about Marner's status:
He's sitting out tonight's game as a precaution, and the expectation is that he'll be ready for the Four Nations tournament.
However, if the issue lingers into Thursday's game against Seattle, it could become a bigger talking point.
For now, the focus is on rest and recovery."
Mitch Marner's Absence A Precaution But Has Potential To Get Worse
Stiffness is expected after playing 50-plus games in a season and while it's positive to see that Marner is only dealing with some aches and pains that come with an 82-game slate, it's still concerning that it could stretch into Thursday.
Toronto's practice tomorrow is going to be a very interesting sign as a Marner appearance all but assures that he'll be good to go, but if he's not then it's time to hover the finger around the panic button.
Marner has been undoubtedly the team's MVP in 2024-25, leading the way with 70 points in 52 games (16G, 54A) and recently became the fastest to reach 70 points with the Leafs since Doug Gilmour and Dave Andreychuk in 1993-94.
A free agent at the end of the season, a lot of talk has been thrown around regarding whether or not Marner is going to stay with the team, or take a massive deal elsewhere, where no doubt teams are going to throw Brinks Trucks full of cash at the star winger.
According to Darren Dreger, fans can breathe a sigh of relief that Mitch Marner isn't too worse for wear and is just dealing with some aches. But if that stretches to Thursday and beyond; then it's the fans who are going to be in a lot of pain if he's out long-term.
