NHL legend Chris Pronger highlights Mitch Marner absence behind Toronto Maple Leafs struggles in 2026 NHL season

The Toronto Maple Leafs were very excited about the 2025–26 NHL season. All because they had star players like Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares. But injuries and changes to the roster have made them less reliable, so the team is still trying to find its rhythm in important games.Things really changed when Mitch Marner left the team in the summer. Marner was a key part of Toronto's offensive identity because he was known for being able to play both ways and make great plays. The team has had trouble getting the same smooth attacking plays that were a big part of their style before he left.Chris Pronger recently talked about how Toronto's performance is still affected by Marner's absence. He said that losing a player who scores almost 100 points a game has a big effect on both the team's scoring and its chemistry as a whole.Pronger stressed that Marner did more than just score goals, and he was a key "catalyst" in Toronto's system because he could control the puck, lead power plays, and play defense, and the Maple Leafs are having a hard time keeping their offense and defense in sync without that presence.These worries are reflected in the team's current record, which has them lower in the Atlantic Division standings. All because of inconsistent results, as the season goes on, a team that once looked like it could make the playoffs now has some questions.The lack of teamwork on the ice is becoming clearer. Even without the numbers. Toronto hasn't been able to quickly get the puck back and move it around well, which has limited their chances to score. This is a big change from previous seasons when Marner was a key player.The Maple Leafs need to find ways to change as the NHL season goes on. And the need for a new offensive driver is still urgent, whether it's through changes to the roster or changes to the way the team plays. As Pronger says, Toronto's problems this season will continue to be defined by the fact that Mitch Marner is not there. Toronto struggles offensively and tactically as Marner’s absence disrupts chemistry and consistency.