NHL: Utah at Toronto Maple Leafs - Source: ImagnMitch Marner makes his feelings known about Auston Matthews-deprived Toronto Maple Leafs having 7-1 record. (Image Source: Imagn)

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner shared his thoughts about the team’s performance during the absence of captain Auston Matthews, who hasn’t played since a 3-1 win over the Minnesota Wild on Nov. 3.

Matthews is recovering from a lingering injury but is expected to return to the lineup soon. During his absence, the Maple Leafs have excelled, winning seven of eight games and showcasing some of their best hockey this season.

Mitch Marner has been a standout player during this period, accumulating 14 points and six goals in seven games, including an impressive streak of four consecutive games with multiple points.

After contributing a two-point game in the Leafs’ 3-2 win on Sunday, Marner emphasized the depth of talent in the team. He noted that the Leafs have a strong belief in their ability to perform well, regardless of who’s on the ice. Marner said (3:26 onwards):

“We have a lot of great players regardless of (them being) in our team or in the Marlies organization. Lot of guys down there that can defnitely be playing (on) a full NHL roster. So, we got of lot of confidence of whoever is in the lineup, and that’s how you have to play.”

With the win on the night, the Maple Leafs improved their record to 13-6-2 to remain atop the Atlantic Division and sixth in the league standings with 28 points after 21 games. Meanwhile, Mitch Marner leads the club in scoring with 28 points, through eight goals and 20 assists, in 21 games.

HC Craig Berube on whether Mitch Marner has found a new level to his play

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube shared his thoughts on Mitch Marner’s performance. He noted that Marner’s contributions extend beyond just scoring, as he has been effective in all situations on the ice.

Berube said (via Maple Leafs Hot Stove):

“I think it is business as usual. Even early on in the year, he was playing really good hockey for us in all situations — not just scoring. I find he is shooting a little bit more, which is great. I think he can still shoot more, but he is doing a really good job.”

Mitch Marner and the Toronto Maple Leafs return to action on Wednesday when they travel to the Amerant Bank Arena to face off against the Florida Panthers (12-8-1). The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET.