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Mitch Marner Reveals Playing in Vegas Helped Release Stress

2026-07-01 · Mitch Marner · Player Focus

Mitch Marner Reveals Playing in Vegas Helped Release Stress

Mitch Marner admitted that playing in Vegas has helped him release stress and pressure. On May 26, he helped Vegas sweep the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Final.

What happened?

Marner alluded to having “some dark times in hockey” after the win. He didn't elaborate on the specifics but mentioned that he endured criticism during his first nine NHL seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Marner had a fair amount of heat thrown his way during his time with the Maple Leafs. He said that the past five years have been filled with self-reflection and leaning on others for support.

Why it matters for Mitch Marner

"Mental health is a super important thing to me," Marner said. He's been trying to take care of his mental health for the last five years or so. Marner expressed gratitude for his teammates in Toronto who supported him.

He mentioned that talking to teammates and expressing himself helped him through tough times. Marner also said that he's been trying to cut out the noise that comes with being a high-profile player in the NHL.

What comes next?

Marner said that he's been trying to check himself out of social media for the last two or three years. He believes that getting away from it has helped him in a lot of ways. Marner emphasized the importance of talking about mental health.

Golden Knights forward Jack Eichel, who played his first six NHL seasons with the Buffalo Sabres, shared his thoughts on Marner's experience in Vegas. Eichel said that living and being part of the Vegas community is a special experience.

Eichel mentioned that the organization does an incredible job of allowing players to focus on playing and performing. He said that everywhere throughout the organization, people do an outstanding job, which helps players do their job without worrying about other things.

Marner's teammates, including Eichel, are grateful and appreciative of the organization's support. On May 29, Eichel had a candid conversation with Mike Zeisberger of NHL.com, where he shared his thoughts on his own experiences and low points.

Marner's journey to mental wellness is an ongoing process. He's been open about his struggles and the importance of taking care of his mental health. As he continues to play in Vegas, Marner is focused on performing and doing his job without the added stress and pressure.

The sign-and-trade deal on July 1, 2025, marked a new chapter in Marner's career. He's been able to find a sense of relief and release in Vegas, which has helped him grow as a player and a person. Marner's story serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health in the high-pressure world of professional sports.

More Mitch Marner news →