During Sportsnet’s “Take Your Pick” segment on Wednesday Night Hockey, analysts discussed potential linemates for Connor McDavid at the 4 Nations Face-Off. NHL analyst Sam Cosentino named Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner as one of his picks.

Cosentino also highlighted McDavid’s childhood connection with Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett through the Toronto Marlies and Greater Toronto Hockey League. He also praised Marner’s playmaking skills, emphasizing the versatility he would add to the line.

“I’m going Sam Bennett, for sure, because of the childhood connection back to the Toronto Marlies and the Greater Toronto Hockey League.” Cosentino said, “And, I’m going Mitch Marner, just add a little bit of play making, so somewhat along the same lines as you, Luke, but I like Bennett with a little grid up there on that line as well.”

Mitch Marner, who is in the middle of a $65,418,000 contract with the Maple Leafs, has excelled this season, leading his team with 38 points in 28 games.

With 10 goals and 28 assists, he has driven Toronto’s offense, especially during Auston Matthews’ absence. Over his career, Marner has recorded 677 points in 604 NHL games.

Bennett, who helped the Panthers win the Stanley Cup last season, has 13 goals and 13 assists in 28 games this year. Across 643 career games, he has tallied 311 points and remains a strong two-way presence.

Connor McDavid recently reached 1,020 career points, surpassing the 1,000-point milestone in November. Known for his remarkable skill, McDavid is a three-time Hart Trophy winner and added the Conn Smythe Trophy to his accolades last season. This year, McDavid is tied with Marner for seventh in league scoring with 38 points (14 goals, 24 assists).

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl lead Oilers to 2-1 win

The Edmonton Oilers won 2-1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday at Rogers Place with goals from Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. McDavid opened the scoring for Edmonton at 17:31 of the first period. He weaved through defenders and beat Andrei Vasilevskiy with a blocker-side shot.

Tampa Bay equalized at 10:02 of the second period when Jake Guentzel capitalized on a turnover by Evan Bouchard. Nikita Kucherov set up Guentzel for a wrist shot past Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner.

Leon Draisaitl restored Edmonton’s lead at 11:58 of the second period. His backhand attempt on a breakaway rebounded off Victor Hedman’s skate and into the net. Stuart Skinner made 21 saves, helping the Oilers secure their third consecutive win.