Marner’s Hat Trick Powers Maple Leafs to 5-2 Victory Over Red Wings
Detroit, MI – The Toronto Maple Leafs closed out their 2024 calendar year road games in style, dominating the Detroit Red Wings 5-2 at Little Caesars Arena on Friday night. A standout performance by Mitch Marner, who netted a hat trick, propelled Toronto to victory in front of a packed crowd of 19,515.
Toronto struck early and often, setting the tone with David Kämpf’s first goal of the season just 2:29 into the game. The Leafs’ momentum continued as Marner scored his first of three at 8:16 in the first period, assisted by captain John Tavares and defenseman Philippe Myers. Marner added another with just 32 seconds left in the first period on a power play, extending Toronto’s lead to 3-0 heading into the intermission.
The second period saw no let-up from the Leafs, as Marner completed his hat trick at 16:23, with assists from Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Max Pacioretty. Nicholas Robertson capped off Toronto’s scoring with a buzzer-beater goal at 19:58 in the second period, assisted by Mason McTavish and Bobby McMann.
LEAFS WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWIN!@LGCanada | #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/w95ypuCbcx
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) December 28, 2024
Detroit managed a brief rally in the third period, with Lucas Raymond converting on a power play and Simon Edvinsson scoring at even strength. However, the Leafs’ defense, anchored by goaltender Joseph Woll, held firm to secure the win. Woll faced 25 shots and made 23 saves, maintaining his strong form as Toronto’s primary netminder.
Detroit’s goaltending situation was less stable. Alex Lyon started but was pulled after allowing two goals on two shots. Cam Talbot took over and allowed three more goals on 21 shots over the final two periods.
The victory marked Toronto’s 20th win of the season, moving them closer to solidifying their playoff position. Marner was named the first star of the game for his outstanding offensive display, while Tavares and Robertson earned second and third-star honors, respectively.
Toronto returns to action at home tomorrow as they look to build on their strong performance.
