Mitch Marner’s Maple Leafs Legacy if He Stays in Toronto – The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

My, how time has changed things. Not too long ago, Toronto Maple Leafs fans were united in a few common thoughts. First, Kyle Dubas should be relieved of his duties as general manager. That happened. Then, many believed head coach Sheldon Keefe should follow him out the door. That happened, too. Finally, there was the constant debate over one of the “Core Four” needing to be traded—the salary structure wasn’t sustainable. Many believed that either William Nylander or Mitch Marner would have to go.

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Fast forward to today and it seems the narrative has shifted. Nylander has had a solid season, becoming the second-most prolific goal scorer (with 33 goals to Leon Draisaitl’s 37) in the NHL. That he’s not on pace for a career season probably has more to do with the Maple Leafs’ playstyle than any other factor. His all-around play has been improving. Nylander signed a long-term contract a year ago and will likely stay for a while.

Auston Matthews signed long-term and was named captain, and John Tavares showed leadership in stepping away from being the formal leader and continues to produce at a high level. One hardly hears that the Maple Leafs salary structure is unsustainable. Then, there’s Mitch Marner.

Marner Is Beginning to Set Maple Leafs Franchise Records

Marner’s on-ice success has continued to build quietly. He’s now begun to touch historical milestones that once seemed reserved for the greats in Maple Leafs history. Will Marner, like Nylander and Matthews, sign on to stay in Toronto for the long haul? And what could he accomplish if he did? The potential for Marner to become one of the greatest Maple Leafs players of all time is beginning to feel more real than ever.

With Marner continuing to break records, we can only wonder how many more remarkable milestones he could hit if he spends the entirety of his career with the Maple Leafs. The 26-year-old has already cemented his place in franchise history, but could he become one of the best players ever to wear the Blue & White?

Here’s a look at why Marner’s future with the Leafs could see him accomplish even more and why fans may be witnessing one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Three Reasons Why Marner Could Be One of the Best Maple Leafs in History

Reason One: Marner Is Rapidly Climbing in the Franchise Rankings

In only 629 career games, Marner became the fastest player in Maple Leafs history to reach 500 assists. This feat has only been achieved by legends like Darryl Sittler, Borje Salming, and Mats Sundin. With many years ahead of him, it’s not out of the question to see Marner climb to the top of the franchise’s all-time lists for points, assists, and even goals. With his vision, hockey IQ, and creativity on the ice, Marner could eventually surpass even the most iconic Maple Leafs players in history.

Reason Two: Marner Demonstrates Consistency at the Highest Level

Marner isn’t just flash and flair; he’s an all-around, 200-foot player who makes an impact in offensive and defensive situations. His ability to create scoring opportunities and shut down opponents makes him an invaluable asset. As goaltender Anthony Stolarz pointed out, Marner’s defensive game often goes underappreciated: “He’s a one-of-a-kind player… He’s always in the right spot, always stripping guys and picking passes.”

Related: Will Mitch Marner Cement Maple Leafs Legacy or Chase a Big Contract?

Reason Three: Marner Is Still Just Scratching the Surface

Marner is just getting started. He’s already become the fastest player in team history to reach 70- career points. However, what could he accomplish in the next five, 10, or even 15 years with the team? If he stays with the Maple Leafs, there’s a chance he could chase down all-time records, join the ranks of other franchise greats, and add to his growing legacy in a city that loves its legends.

Marner’s Milestones So Far

Here is a short list of Marner’s franchise milestones so far: Marner reached 700-career points in January 2025. But his forte is as a playmaker and he continues to impress with his consistent assist production. Marner reached 500 assists faster than any other Maple Leafs player in franchise history. By hitting the 500-assist mark, he became just the fourth player in team history to do so.

Marner is also the third-fastest among active players to reach the 500-assist milestone. Only Sidney Crosby (554 games) and Connor McDavid (527 games) did so faster. With those kinds of numbers at such a young age, it’s clear he has the potential to keep pushing the boundaries of greatness in Toronto.

Could Marner Become the Leafs’ All-Time Greatest?

If Marner stays with the Maple Leafs and continues at this pace, he has the chance break more records but potentially to lead the team to its first Stanley Cup in almost six decades. His ability to see the ice better than almost anyone and play in all situations makes him a special talent.

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The accolades keep coming, but they might just be the tip of the iceberg for what’s to come in his career. That is, if he stays in Toronto. Now, there’s the million-dollar question.