"He's the scapegoat": Ex-Maple Leafs player defends Mitch Marner

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Aug 14, 2024 04:29 GMT

Former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Zach Bogosian stood up for Mitch Marner amid criticism aimed at the Leafs' star winger this offseason.

During a recent appearance on the "Cam and Strick Podcast," Bogosian defended his former teammate, saying:

“I don’t understand why everyone’s always on Mitch Marner’s case about everything. He’s such a good kid, a good leader, and he’s always trying to take care of everyone around the room.”

Bogosian got to know Marner well during the 2020-21 season when the defenseman played 45 games during the COVID-shortened season.

Marner and Bogosian's cordial relationship prompted the Minnesota Wild defenseman to add:

“He’s obviously a great player, but it’s almost like he’s the scapegoat for everything. I’ve played with a lot of guys, and he is as good a person and player as I’ve seen.”

Those comments speak toward the type of person Marner is on and off the ice. Bogosian concluded by saying:

“A lot of people give him a hard time about this and that, but he’s trying his best. He’s such a good player. His game isn’t about running people over like some might want; his game is about outthinking and outworking his opponents.”

While Bogosian and Marner have been teammates, they’ve also been opponents. Bogosian has played with the Buffalo Sabres and Tampa Bay Lightning, facing off against Marner numerous times. But despite being rivals on the ice, Bogosian continues to hold Marner in high esteem.

Still no word on a contract extension for Mitch Marner

The speculation heading into this offseason surrounds Mitch Marner’s uncertain contract status. Marner will be entering the final year of his current contract, potentially making him a UFA by the end of this upcoming season.

However, there is no word on whether a contract extension is looming on the horizon. While rumors suggested several deals might have been in place for the Toronto Maple Leafs to trade the star winger, nothing has materialized.

A recent article on Sportsnet suggested that if a trade did not happen this summer, the Leafs could either extend Marner or let him walk. However, the potential outcome hinges on what Marner wishes to do.

If his wishes lie in maximizing his finances, testing the free-agent market would seem likely. In contrast, if Marner is eager to stay with his hometown team, he’ll sign at some point.

Earlier this offseason, Pierre LeBrun said:

“Mitch controls a lot of this whole thing.”

LeBrun’s comments point to Marner’s no-movement clause, meaning he must authorize any trade before it happens. That situation means that the Leafs' hands are tied at present.