Vegas rallied from multiple deficits to beat Toronto 6–5 in OT as Mitch Marner recorded two power-play assists in his first game back — a sign of Vegas’ special-teams strength. Bettors might favor the Golden Knights in close games or live/late-game bets and consider the over on future matchups when Marner faces the Leafs, given both teams’ scoring and late-game volatility.
Mitch Marner’s Toronto Return Sparks Drama as Golden Knights Rally for 6–5 OT Win
Game Overview
Vegas overcame multiple deficits to edge Toronto 6–5 in overtime at T-Mobile Arena in Mitch Marner’s first game against his former team. Maple Leafs builts early leads — 3–1 after one and 4–2 midway through the second — but the Golden Knights stayed within striking distance and tied the game with seven seconds remaining. Jack Eichel finished it in OT for Vegas.
Marner’s Night: Booed but Productive
Marner was loudly booed throughout the night, starting with pregame introductions, but finished with two assists, both on Pavel Dorofeyev’s power-play goals. He did not score, yet his play on the man advantage highlighted Vegas’ special-teams edge and his continued playmaking impact despite the hostile reception. He downplayed pregame and in-game heat after the contest.
Key Moments and Scoring
Toronto held control early, rebuilding a two-goal lead early in the third. Vegas chipped away via special teams and late heroics, scoring the dramatic equalizer with seven seconds left to force overtime. Eichel’s overtime strike completed the comeback and provided a dramatic finish for the visiting team.
Warmup Exchange with Auston Matthews
A brief, camera-captured moment in warmups drew attention: Marner slid a puck toward former teammate Auston Matthews as players were exiting the ice. The gesture was fleeting and later described as lighthearted. Marner and Matthews were linemates for nine seasons (2016–17 through 2024–25), making the meeting a notable subplot.
Trade Background
The game carried added significance after Marner’s June 30, 2025 sign-and-trade to Vegas. Toronto had signed him to an eight-year, $96 million deal (reported $12 million AAV) then immediately traded him to the Golden Knights in exchange for Nicolas Roy, closing a high-profile chapter for both franchises.
Betting Implications
The contest underscored Vegas’ late-game resilience and special-teams potency. Punters should note: Golden Knights may be attractive in moneyline and live/late-game wagers, while matchups involving these teams could trend toward higher scoring totals (consider the over). There may be added value in overtime/late-goal prop markets when Marner and this Leafs roster meet.
NHL superstar Mitch Marner faced his former team for the first time Thursday night as the Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 6–5 in overtime at T-Mobile Arena.
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