Matthews and Marner paired together as struggling Leafs search for answers
TORONTO — Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner are the last players off the ice at the conclusion of every Toronto Maple Leafs’ pre-game warmup.
As the in-arena music blares and fans press against the glass looking for a souvenir, the talented duo flings pucks back and forth, attempting trick shots and high-wire moves with youthful exuberance.
They’ve rarely skated on the same line in their careers, but the struggling Leafs seem willing to push that button in hopes of shaking their recent 3-7-0 tailspin.
Matthews centred Marner and veteran winger Patrick Marleau at practice Monday as Toronto head coach Mike Babcock put his forward combinations in a blender for the second time in less than a week.