Newly ex-NHL coach Mike Babcock has recently been in the spotlight due to controversies surrounding his latest, very brief, coaching role. Prior to this, he was with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he was let go following allegations of improper player treatment. Several players who had issues with him during his tenure with the Leafs are still part of the team.
Mitch Marner was highly involved in the last significant dispute regarding Babcock. He was once allegedly asked by Babcock to rank his teammates based on their work ethic, and the results were unexpectedly made public. This incident made headlines at the time and has resurfaced.
However, when Marner was recently questioned about Babcock's latest firing and the prior events, he chose to remain neutral and professional.
Despite having a perfect opportunity to criticize Babcock, Marner opted for diplomacy, demonstrating remarkable professionalism and leadership, traits that have made him an integral part of the Leafs team. Under coach Sheldon Keefe, the team clearly remains focused on hoisting Lord Stanley's Cup this year.
