Mitch Marner Cites Two Key Factors in Choosing Golden Knights over Maple Leafs originally appeared on Athlon Sports. While rumors spoke of former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner's preference to land in Vegas if he reached the open market, the superstar confirmed the veracity of those whispers on Tuesday.

Mitch Marner opens up on leaving the Maple Leafs after signing a massive deal with the Vegas Golden Knights, eyeing a fresh start in Sin City.

Marner was set to hit unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career after his contract with the Maple Leafs expired on June 30. Rather than hit the open market, he was dealt to Vegas in exchange for Nic Roy and proceeded to sign an eight-year contract worth $12 million per season.