'Leaving Isn't Easy': Mitch Marner Pens Goodbye Message To Maple Leafs Fans After Joining Golden Knights

Mitch Marner has officially departed the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The star forward signed an eight-year deal worth $96 million on Tuesday after completing a sign-and-trade.

Shortly after the deal, the forward took to his Instagram account and shared his thoughts about leaving the Leafs.

"Dear Toronto,

Now that my time in Toronto has come to an end, I wanted to share what these last nine years have meant to me. Leaving isn't easy. This city is where I grew up, where I fell in love with hockey, and where I've had the

incredible honour of living out my childhood dream. Wearing the Maple Leaf on my chest wasn't just about playing for a team, it was about representing my home. When I was drafted, all I wanted was to help bring a Stanley Cup to Toronto. That was always the goal, and came up short.I know how much this team means to this city, and I know the expectations that come with wearing this jersey. I gave everything I had, but in the end, it wasn't enough. That's hard to admit, because I wanted it so badly, for all of us.

To the fans: Thank you. Playing in Toronto is special because of you. Over the last nine seasons, I have felt it all: the passion, the pride, the hope, the pressure, and the support. You care deeply, and | never took that for granted. To my teammates, coaches, trainers, the equipment and medical staff, team services, PR staff, and everyone behind the scenes who keep things running,thank you. I'm grateful for every conversation, everymoment of support, and every bit of belief you showed me along the way. As I prepare for what comes next, I leave a different person than I was at 18. I'll always be grateful for my time here, and most of all, 'm so proud to have been a Toronto Maple Leaf.