Mitch Marner's stats in last 7 games without Auston Matthews in Maple Leafs lineup

Mitch Marner has been on fire for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the absence of captain Auston Matthews, who is currently sidelined with a lingering injury. The reigning "Maurice Trohy" winner is recovering well and is expected to return to the lineup soon.

Matthews has been out since the Maple Leafs' 3-1 win over the Minnesota Wild on Nov. 3, but the team has thrived in his absence, boasting an impressive 7-1 record.

During the last seven games, Mitch Marner has made a significant impact, racking up 14 points, including six goals.

His contributions have been notable, with standout performances such as two assists against the Boston Bruins on Nov. 5, a goal and an assist against the Detroit Red Wings on Nov. 8 and two points against the Montreal Canadiens on Nov. 9.

Mitch Marner continued to shine with two points against the Washington Capitals on Nov. 13, two points against the Edmonton Oilers on Nov. 16 and two points against the Vegas Golden Knights on Nov. 20.

Most recently, he scored two goals against the Utah Hockey Club on Nov. 24. Overall, Marner has elevated his game in Matthews' absence, accumulating 14 points through eight goals and six assists over seven games, including a remarkable four-game streak of multiple points.

During the eight-game stretch, the Maple Leafs also suffered a shutout defeat to the Ottawa Senators on Nov. 12, in which Marner managed to register just one shot on goal.

John Tavares praises Mitch Marner

Marner scored twice in the second period during the Leafs' 3-2 win over the Utah Hockey Club on Sunday. His first goal came at the 5:15 mark on the breakaway after converting a stretch pass from John Tavares into the net.

He then scored his second of the night during a powerplay at 9:34 to put the team up 2-1. After the game, Tavares offered high praise for Marner, emphasizing the consistent excellence he brings to the team each season.

“It is just kind of standard the level he brings year in and year out and what he brings to our club, what he means to this team,” Tavares said via NHL.com.

“He’s an elite player, makes plays, does so many good things without [the puck], plays in all situations and brings an element to our locker room that is unique. So, we are really lucky to have him," he added.

Mitch Marner leads the Leafs in scoring with 28 points through eight goals and 20 assists after 21 games.

The Maple Leafs will look to continue their winning run when they face the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on Wednesday.