A Montreal Canadiens analyst didn’t hold back this week, fiercely defending Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner and sharply criticizing Leafs fans for their relentless negativity toward the talented forward.

Amid growing criticism directed at Marner, particularly after recent team setbacks, the analyst stepped forward to call out what he described as unfair treatment and unrealistic expectations from Toronto’s fanbase.

In a passionate defense, he emphasized Marner’s impressive skill set, playmaking abilities, and consistent offensive production, asserting that any NHL team—including the Canadiens—would be extremely fortunate to have a player of his caliber.

“I’d sign Mitch Marner in a heartbeat,” the analyst declared, highlighting the absurdity he sees in fans undervaluing such a premier talent. His comments immediately sparked heated debates on social media, with Leafs supporters reacting strongly, some feeling called out, while Canadiens fans enthusiastically entertained the hypothetical scenario of Marner donning the bleu-blanc-rouge.

The analyst’s bold remarks underscore the intense rivalry between the two fanbases, while also bringing attention to the high-pressure environment Leafs players regularly contend with in Toronto.

Whether or not Marner’s critics reconsider their stance, it’s clear his abilities are highly respected—even admired—by observers beyond Toronto.

Toronto Maple Leafs fans don’t realize how lucky they are to have a player like Mitch Marner. Recently, on TVA Sports, Jean-Charles Lajoie was very clear: Toronto doesn’t deserve a player of this caliber.

During his segment with Tony Marinaro, JiC praised Marner , who shined in the final of the Four Nations Face-Off by setting up two important goals for Canada.

But he also criticized the unfair treatment the forward receives in Toronto, a city where the pressure is immense.

“Keep complaining about Marner.

Get Marner out of Toronto, you don’t deserve him!” Lajoie said, frustrated.

“This guy was born and raised in Toronto, he dreamed of the Leafs his whole life, and he gives everything for the team.

Yet, he keeps getting criticized.”

 

Mitch Marner: A Dream Acquisition for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

JiC believes that if Toronto ends up pushing Marner out, another team will jump at the opportunity.

“You’re going to push him out of Toronto, and we’ll scoop him up in Montreal,” he said, half-joking, half-hoping.

I think Lajoie isn’t wrong.

Marner is an exceptional player, and if he becomes available, several teams will be willing to do anything to get him.

The question is whether Toronto will realize its mistake before it’s too late.

Let’s not forget that Marner will soon be completely free as an unrestricted free agent (UFA), meaning Kent Hughes could genuinely have a chance.