The jeers from travelling Toronto Maple Leafs fans followed Mitch Marner every time he touched the puck, but it was the Vegas Golden Knights' star who had the final say in a dramatic overtime victory on Thursday night. In a high-scoring thriller at T-Mobile Arena, the Leafs surrendered a two-goal lead in the final minute of regulation before falling 6-5 in extra time on January 15, 2026.
Marner Responds to Boos with Key Performance
Facing his former team for the first time since the sign-and-trade deal last June, Marner was the target of loud boos from the sizable contingent of Leafs supporters in Las Vegas. The GTA native remained unflappable, however, setting up two crucial power-play goals and nearly assisting on a third. His performance helped Vegas overcome a deficit and handed his old club a devastating loss.
"They have a passionate fan base and they always travel well," Marner told TSN post-game, downplaying the hostile reception. He acknowledged some pre-game nerves but said they had settled by puck drop. The win puts Marner, now a point-per-game centre with the Knights, in a positive mood ahead of his anticipated return to Scotiabank Arena in eight nights.
Late-Game Meltdown Costs Leafs Crucial Point
The Maple Leafs appeared to be in firm control for most of the evening, leading for the entirety of regulation and holding a 5-3 advantage late in the third period. The collapse began when Mark Stone scored on a crease scramble to bring Vegas within one. With goalie Adin Hill pulled for the extra attacker, the Knights pressed furiously.
The tying goal came with just seven seconds remaining on the clock. Tomas Hertl found the back of the net, with Jack Eichel earning an assist to cap a four-point night. The momentum carried into overtime, where Eichel won it after the three exhausted Leafs defenders on the ice could no longer contain the Vegas attack.
Injury Scare and Offensive Output for Toronto
The loss was compounded by an early injury to star winger William Nylander. Just 2:17 into the game, after notching a goal and an assist, Nylander stumbled during a post-goal celebration. He attempted to test the injury later but ultimately left the game, potentially re-aggravating the lower-body issue that had sidelined him for six games prior to this road trip.
Despite the setback, Toronto's offensive firepower was on display. The remnants of the old "Core Four" all contributed: Auston Matthews and John Tavares scored, while Marner had his two assists for Vegas. Matthew Knies and Scott Laughton also connected for a goal that seemed to seal the game before the late unraveling.
The defeat leaves the Maple Leafs two points out of a wildcard playoff spot in the Eastern Conference as they prepare to conclude their four-game road trip on Saturday against the Winnipeg Jets.
