Mitch Marner’s 27-year-old career was cemented on Wednesday as he scored a game-winning overtime goal for Team Canada in the 4 Nations opener. The assist from Sidney Crosby marked a moment years in the making for the winger.
Marner secured a massive 4-3 victory for Canada, but the win also brought out emotion from an all-world player who has endured playoff defeats with the Toronto Maple Leafs. “I’m sure my family’s gonna be very excited about that one,” Marner said after the game.
The victory reinforces Marner’s standing in the hockey universe and adds context to his professional journey. Despite being tied for the NHL’s fourth-leading scorer, Marner had six playoff goals to show for his last 37 Stanley Cup playoff games. However, he has grown as a player, and teammates like Mark Stone say he’s an “unbelievable teammate.”
Coach Jon Cooper praised Marner’s confidence, stating, “That kid oozes confidence.” The assist from Crosby marked a big moment for the winger, who had previously watched his team squander two-goal leads to Sweden. Marner’s goal was a testament to his ability to create space and make plays in high-pressure situations.
The win brought back memories of Marner’s childhood idol, Sidney Crosby. He always wore No. 87 as a kid because he was a huge fan. Now, Marner is one step closer to realizing his own dream goals.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6133498/2025/02/13/mitch-marner-4-nations-face-off