Lazy Mitch Marner quits on the player and hangs his goalie out to dry
For one reason or another Sheldon Keefe has fallen in love with the Toronto Maple Leafs 5 forward powerplay. This despite the fact that it continues to perform horribly. The lack of defender at the point has given up multiple odd man rushes because of it.
During the 1st period tonight, Keefe rolled out the 5 forward powerplay again and again it failed him. This time though because Mitch Marner decided to give up on back checking. When it comes to lack of effort by a Maple Leafs winter it's usually a clip of William Nylander being highlighted.
As the puck skips out of the zone beyond Marner he makes a diving play to try and play the puck, but it is unsuccessful. That's when Marner gives up on the play as the Panthers receive a breakaway. William Nylander back checks hard and Matt Murray makes a huge save. Unfortunately because Marner gave up on the play a trailing Panther is able to bury the puck for a short handed goal.
The Maple Leafs continue to struggle, but efforts like this by Mitch Marner are not a good look for the Leafs who need to build playoff habits.
![Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team Canada forward Sam Bennett (9) celebrates scoring with forward Brandon Hagel (38) and forward Mitch Marner (16) against Team USA during the second period during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images](https://i.marqueur.com/habsetlnh/medium/533453.webp "Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team Canada forward Sam Bennett (9) celebrates scoring with forward Brandon Hagel (38) and forward Mitch Marner (16) against Team USA during the second period during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images")
