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Time of India
4 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Mitch Marner's highly anticipated return to Toronto as a Golden Knight set for January 23, 2026 showdown
Mitch Marner's return to Toronto as a Vegas Golden Knight in 2026, is set to be an emotionally charged event (Getty Images) The 2025-26 NHL season will feature no shortage of drama, but one of the most emotionally charged matchups will come when Mitch Marner steps back onto the ice at Scotiabank Arena—this time, wearing a Vegas Golden Knights jersey. The former Toronto Maple Leafs star is scheduled to return to Toronto on January 23, 2026, marking his first game back since being traded in a blockbuster sign-and-trade deal earlier this offseason. Mitch Marner's departure from Toronto adds weight to his homecoming game After spending nine seasons with the Leafs and becoming a core pillar of the franchise, Marner's departure was as heartbreaking as it was inevitable. Drafted fourth overall in 2015, he racked up an impressive 741 points in 657 games, ranking fifth all-time in Leafs franchise history. Despite his consistent performance, Toronto's inability to make a deep playoff run led to increasing scrutiny—and ultimately, his exit. — Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) Marner's first meeting against the Leafs will actually take place January 15, 2026, in Vegas. But it's the January 23 return to Toronto that fans have circled in red. This isn't just another regular-season game—it's a reunion, a reckoning, and for many, a reflection on what could have been. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Ryan Reaves defends Mitch Marner amid harsh fan backlash While Marner's exit drew mixed reactions across the league, one of his former teammates, Ryan Reaves, came to his defense during a candid appearance on the "Cam & Strick" podcast. 'Mitchie earned the right to go wherever he wants. He's dedicated a lot of his career — his whole career — to Toronto. A hometown guy. He's poured everything he had into it. Sometimes it's just time to move on,' Reaves said. Ryan Reaves talks Toronto media, Evander Kane rivalry and more He also didn't shy away from pointing fingers at the Toronto fanbase, hinting that the pressure may have pushed Marner out: 'I think they can be a little ruthless to him. I guess just because he's the hometown guy, and sometimes fans want to point fingers at somebody.' Also Read: Mathew Tkachuk injury fallout: Panthers face major setback as star may need surgery and miss 2026 opener As the Leafs gear up to face Marner and the Golden Knights, one thing is clear: January 23 won't just be about points in the standings—it'll be about closure, reflection, and the ever-evolving relationship between a city and its fallen hockey hero. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Anthony Stolarz returns to ice: Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender gearing up for a stronger comeback
Anthony Stolarz returns to ice: Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender gearing up for a stronger comeback (Image Via Twitter) The offseason of 2023-2024 brought a welcome development for fans, with front-office president Brendan Shanahan announcing that goaltender Anthony Stolarz had resumed on-ice training. Having suffered a serious concussion that kept him out of play through the playoffs, his appearance in full gear alongside his former goalie coach is an encouraging sign for the team. His absence was felt, particularly during the nail-biting final Game 7 moments, but it is reassuring that he is back in practice and able to be part of the conversation going into next season about a goaltending plan. Stolarz is in the process of working his way back onto the ice to backstop with Joseph Woll, having signed a two-year deal. Anthony Stolarz shows signs of full recovery ahead of the new NHL season — Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) Anthony Stolarz, now having averted the playoffs due to a concussion, has been spotted working out in full goaltending gear under the watchful eye of offseason goaltending coach George Bosak. This clip was shared via Bosak's Instagram account, giving Leafs fans their first glimpse of the goalie back on skates. It is a major step toward recovery, both physically and mentally, especially considering that the injury resulted from a collision with Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett during a pivotal playoff series. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Искате да научите повече за новото BMW 2 Gran Coupe? BMW Научете повече Undo Stolarz has trained with Bosak in the past during the offseason, so the fact that he is returning once again suggests that his game recovery has a structured plan. Well, this dedication is justifiable because his rookie campaign with Toronto went beyond expectations. By producing a phenomenal .926 save percentage and a 21-8-3 winning record through 34 competitive games, Stolarz truly cemented his value as a reliable goaltender. Whispers of Vezina contention were in the air before his momentum was arrested mid-season due to the knee impairment that ensued. Those seven weeks out of action raised questions about his durability. Still, the guy's value remains strong, with good puck skills and decent calmness under pressure. With Joseph Woll anticipated to share duties again next season, Stolarz's presence lends a bit of air to the Leafs, though his ultimate long-term position is unclear. There may be an extension on Stolarz's contract in Toronto; however, a fine balance must be achieved concerning his performance and the associated risk of injuries. If moved forward, a raise should be on the table, but where to rightly place the term is tricky given that he's never seen full-time action. The stances of Stolarz in training and his health and consistency will probably be the deciding points. Also Read: Emily Karlsson, wife of William Karlsson, denies relocation rumors with renovation reveal Training in the offseason would help the Maple Leafs and their fans if Stolarz indeed were to come back. Nevertheless, even though there are doubts about his long-term reliability, the very fact that he recovered and is working hard means he's ready to step up once more. His presence could be one of the key factors in Toronto's goaltending plans underway. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
