Leafs GM Brad Treliving defends Mitch Marner against media: "He took far too much criticism"
Mitch Marner received a lot of criticism from Maple Leafs fans and the media this offseason but GM Brad Treliving has come to the defense of the Maple Leafs winger.
Mitch Marner has received a lot of criticism over the past few months, from analysts, to fans, to the Maple Leafs media; he hasn't been able to catch a break it seems. Fans were flustered at his lack of seeming lack of motivation when it came to this upcoming season, noticing Marner enjoying the summer carefree.
While his lack of production in the playoffs is of some concern, the entire Core Four of the Maple Leafs haven't really produced when it matters so the blame should be shared equally and people shouldn't be so quick to harp on Marner.
That's the sentiment that Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving shares, as he spoke recently with the Spittin' Chiclets podcast and reminded people that Marner shouldn't be getting nearly as much flak as he has. When asked about the trade rumors on Marner and the criticism of his playoff production, Treliving stood up for his winger:
Mitch had come through a high-ankle sprain. But this goes for all of our guys. Sure, we always want more from everybody, but I think it is unfair. Our goaltending can be better. Our defense can be better. There are other things we can be better at so that those guys have success."
That certainly echoes the production of the Maple Leafs Core Four in the playoffs, specifically in Game 7's where they have a combined 10 points and are a -16 +/- when on the ice; a clear sign that they struggle when it matters most. Treliving knows this, and he's tried to give them the right tools and give them the best possible scenario for success:
He continued to gush about Marner, showing he clearly admires one of his superstars and knows that the playoffs are a long ways away and the focus needs to be on a good start from not only Marner, but from everyone:
I am always going to support my players. I thought he took far too much criticism. We are fortunate to have Mitch. We get to see him every day. He is a star.
There are not many guys who are over a point per game. He is pushing 100 points. He is a Selke Trophy finalist. He kills penalties. He loves being a Maple Leaf. He cares so much that he wears it."
Treliving believes in the Core Four, noting previously he wants to keep them together at any cost. It's clear that Treliving believes in Marner, and fans should too as he's been a massive part of the Maple Leafs success since joining the team after being drafted 4th overall. He's put together 194 goals and 445 assists in 576 games providing a dynamic partner for the league's top goal scorer, and Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews. Criticized for being undersized at draft time, Marner has blossomed into one of the league's elite playmakers, while also putting a big stamp on the Toronto community off the ice. Marner absolutely loves Toronto, and his desire to stay here may depend solely on how much money he wants come season's end.
With the regular season only a week away, and the Maple Leafs and their fans highly anticipating the start of the season, Mitch Marner can take a sigh of relief knowing his GM has his back regardless of what happens.
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