Leafs Return Mitch Marner to OHL

Photo Credit - Chris Young/The Canadian Press

First-round draft pick Mitch Marner was reassigned to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League by the Toronto Maple Leafs on September 27. The 18-year-old Marner was drafted fourth overall on June 26 by the Maple Leafs.

Marner played well during camp but sending him back to London is a great move by Leafs management. This is a good move for the Leafs future, and being sent back to the OHL is great for his development. Marner has a small frame and could use the time to develop into his mature body. In a few seasons he will be atop player for the leafs and giving him time in London will help. He will be given the chance to compete this year lead a skillful group players.

The London Knights are the favorites to win the Memorial Cup this CHL season. They are filled with top prospects and the addition of having Marner back pencils them as a top seed.

Although being sent back would be disappointing to some players, Marner seems to be excited about the chance and hopes to lead London.

"Since Day 1 that I got to London, I've always wanted to wear the 'C' for this city. I remember the first day I walked in and seeing (Scott Harrington) and how big an inspiration he was, then obviously, both (Chris) Tierney and Max (Domi) the last two years.” Marner told London Free Press.

Mitch Marner hopes to repeat the season he had last year when he posted 44 goals and 82 assists totaling 126 points. He will be in the Knights lineup on Friday when they host the Windsor Spitfires.

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