Maple Leafs accused of ‘significant malpractice’ after losing Mitch Marner to Vegas in lopsided sign-and-trade deal

The Toronto Maple Leafs encountered harsh criticism for their handling of Mitch Marner's sign-and-trade to the Vegas Golden Knights. Analyst Bryan Hayes labeled the move "significant malpractice," inquiring the front office's awareness of Marner's intentions.

The deal, which sent Marner to Vegas for Nicolas Roy, has drawn scrutiny regarding Toronto's timing and trade value.

Maple Leafs slammed for mishandling Mitch Marner trade to Vegas

Mitch Marner’s recent departure from the Toronto Maple Leafs has ignited a fiery debate among hockey pundits and fans alike, centered mainly on the management's decision-making. One prominent NHL analyst, Bryan Hayes, didn't mince words, publicly criticizing the front office's strategy in what he described as "significant malpractice."

This strong critique stems from the Maple Leafs' decision to secure only Nicolas Roy, and in return executing a sign-and-trade deal that sent Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights. The timing of this transaction, just as Marner was on the verge of free agency, has become a focal point of argument.Hayes, showing up on TSN’s ‘OverDrive’, analysed the complexities of the situation, pondering a crucial question: “I am curious.

I would love to get an answer on what Shanahan and Treliving knew this time last year.” He went on to elaborate, “Did they know he was out? You’re hearing stories of ‘everyone knows, everyone knows he’s going to Vegas.’ If they knew that, then that is significant malpractice.” The implication here is that if the Leafs' leadership was aware of Marner's desire to leave well in advance, they missed a critical window to optimize their return for the star winger.

Mitch Marner’s impressive regular-season statistics

Marner's tenure in Toronto, while marked by impressive regular-season statistics—741 points in 657 games—was particularly devoid of deep playoff runs, with the team never advancing past the second round in his nine playoff appearances. Hayes further challenged the player's role in the situation, inquiring, “If you’re so unhappy, why don’t you go ask for a change?”He added, “Why is it on the Leafs to force your way out?” This signifies a belief that Marner himself could have commenced a trade request earlier, potentially giving the Maple Leafs more authority. Marner, a 2015 draft pick, leaves behind a mixed legacy, celebrated for his regular-season prowess but scrutinized for the team's postseason struggles.Also Read: Bobby Orr blasts Ron MacLean over controversial claims about Don Cherry’s health and ‘exit strategy’ from Coach’s CornerThis major move marks a fresh start for both Marner and the Leafs, leaving everyone wondering how Toronto's management will bounce back and rebuild their team for a real shot at the championship.