Overview
- The former Maple Leafs star was loudly booed during warm-ups and each early touch of the puck at Scotiabank Arena in his first game back with the Golden Knights.
- Toronto played a short video tribute during the first television timeout that prompted both jeers and cheers from the crowd.
- Marner said he is focused on the present and “not looking back,” framing the night as just another game despite acknowledging it could be emotional.
- His return follows a summer sign-and-trade that sent him to Vegas on an eight-year, US$96 million deal after nine Toronto seasons producing 741 points in 657 games; the Leafs received Nicolas Roy.
- Vegas entered on the second half of a back-to-back after a 4-3 loss in Boston and sits atop the Pacific Division, while Toronto managed injuries and lineup decisions, including Anthony Stolarz’s return in goal.