Mitch Marner scores OT winner for Canada in thriller over Sweden in 4 Nations Face-Off opener

Marner was placed on a line alongside Connor McDavid and Sam Reinhart, and couldn’t convert on a series of chances created by McDavid throughout the contest. It’s all academic now, as Marner’s goal will surely be remembered as one of the moments of the tournament. He was stellar defensively as well, with two shots blocked and a takeaway in all situations.

It was a strange night overall for the Maple Leafs, as Auston Matthews and William Nylander were met with boos prior to the game, but Marner was exempt, as a member of Team Canada.

This is an exceptional development for Marner. He’s been the Maple Leafs’ best player through the 2024-25 campaign, he’s due for an extension and while a best-on-best international tournament is not the same as the NHL, he can erase a narrative about his performances in the clutch with a stellar showing for Canada.

It’s arguably the biggest goal of Marner’s career, and it’s rare to see a Montreal crowd explode for a Maple Leafs star — perhaps this is the transcendent value of an international competition come to life.

Marner and Team Canada resume its schedule Saturday against the United States — where The Leafs Nation staff will be watching the game at Greta! It’s an excellent start to the tournament for Marner, who could excel in a first-line role throughout the event.