Mitch Marner's trade to the Vegas Golden Knights was one of the biggest talking points of last season. The Toronto Maple Leafs traded their star winger just hours before the 2025 NHL Draft, deciding to part ways following another disappointing playoff showing.

Fast forward a year and a lot has changed. Head coach Craig Berube is no longer with the Maple Leafs, while Marner made a run to the Stanley Cup Final, only to lose to the Carolina Hurricanes.

On the 'SimmerPuck' podcast, Berube spoke about Marner's departure to the Golden Knights and reflected on the intangibles the 29-year-old brought to the team, describing him as Toronto's emotional heartbeat both on and off the ice.

Marner's exit marked the end of a decade-long stint at Toronto, where he established himself as one of the league's elite playmakers.

While his on-ice production often grabbed headlines, Berube revealed that Marner's biggest contribution often came from behind the scenes.

The lack of leadership was evident as the Leafs endured a forgettable campaign, finishing dead last in the Atlantic Division during the 2025-26 season.

Looking back at the trade a year later, it's safe to say the Ontario native has come out on top. Joining a perennial Stanley Cup contender, Marner was influential in the Golden Knights' run to the Stanley Cup Final.

San Jose Sharks general manager Mike Grier, after acquiring Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse, alluded to the Marner trade and how it lifted a massive weight off the playmaker's shoulders.

He further commented that the pressure of playing in a big Canadian market was weighing down Mitch Marner.

Replacing Mitch Marner's production has been difficult, but it's his leadership and ability to rally his teammates that are proving harder for the Maple Leafs to replace.

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