Marchand playing mind games, brings up Mitch Marner departure before Leafs-Panthers game

The Florida Panthers are back in Toronto to take on the Maple Leafs tonight, and that means Brad Marchand is being given a soapbox by reporters.

Marchand always has lots to say whenever he's in Toronto to face the Maple Leafs, and this time is no different , with Marchand detailing how a surefire deal with Toronto fell apart last summer.

Marchand also had some comments on the departure of Mitch Marner, blaming fans for his trade to the Vegas Golden Knights.

In advance of tonight's game. Marchand was asked about the recent play of the Toronto Maple Leafs, something he had high praise for. At the same time, Marchand stated losing Marner was bound to have an impact on the team, and blamed fans for him leaving.

Marchand always likes to get under the skin of the Maple Leafs and their fans whenever he's in town, and it seems like he really went out of his way this time to get a reaction. Were the Maple Leafs ever close to signing Marchand? Maybe, but I also wouldn't downplay the possibility that this is a complete troll job on his part.

The Maple Leafs go into tonight's game just two points back of the Florida Panthers in the Atlantic Division, and will have a chance to make up some major ground.

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