Former Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner recently opened up about his decision to leave the team, revealing that personal safety concerns played a major role in his departure. In an interview with TSN’s Mark Masters, now a member of the Vegas Golden Knights, Marner reflected on his nine-season stint with the Leafs, which came to an end after their playoff loss to the Florida Panthers.
Marner shared that while the early playoff games against Florida were a high point, the series took a turn for the worse in later matches. The disappointment on the ice, however, was compounded by a chilling incident off the ice. Shortly after what could have been his final game as a Leaf, Marner received a frightening call from his father-in-law alerting him to his personal address being shared online, along with threats of unwanted visitors.
Concerned for the safety of his family, including his newborn son, Marner took immediate steps to secure his home, hiring full-time security for two weeks. The situation became unbearable for the winger, who emphasized the importance of prioritizing his family’s well-being above all else.
Despite the support from fans, Marner shared the overwhelming negativity he faced on social media, which led to increased security measures and constant vigilance. This alarming incident wasn’t the first time Marner had experienced a threat to his safety in Toronto, as he was previously a victim of an armed carjacking in the city.
Marner’s departure from the Leafs was finalized through a sign-and-trade deal with Vegas, where he signed a lucrative contract. As he looks ahead to his return to Toronto as a visiting player in 2026, Marner’s focus remains on his new chapter with the Golden Knights and ensuring the safety of his loved ones.