For Newest Golden Knight Mitch Marner, Family Is Everything

The Vegas Golden Knights’ newest recruit, Mitch Marner, is ready to embrace his fresh start in Las Vegas. But for the star winger, this deal wasn’t just about hockey, it was about finding a home. 

Hockey is a top priority amongst the league, but for Marner, everything changed earlier in May when he became a father. As previously mentioned, Marner signed an eight-year contract, an undeniable asset for the Knights on the ice. But beyond the rink, that long-term commitment offers his son, Miles, the chance to grow up rooted in one place, surrounded by a close-knit community.

“As soon as I got home from the rink, immediately after games or anything like that, I was trying to figure out how I could help my wife and my son,” Marner said. “Whether it was staying up late some nights, trying to take care of them, or just helping my wife get a couple hours of sleep between feedings. It really changes your mindset quickly. You’re thankful for the lessons that other people taught you along the way, but your mind definitely shifts to being a family man, not just a hockey player.” 

Max Pacioretty and Ryan Reaves, both former Golden Knights and former teammates of Marner with the Maple Leafs, have been key confidants for him over the past few weeks. Their insights and experiences played a pivotal role in helping him and his family realize that Vegas was the right fit all around.

Vegas general manager Kelly McCrimmon attributed the team’s strong culture to its success and highlighted how it plays a role in Marner’s addition to the roster.

“I think we also have the ability here to surround any player with really good players,” McCrimmon said. “Those are things that have been brought to our organization by some people who aren't even in our organization anymore, but have been passed down. And we always say about our culture, don't let it slip. I think he's going to fit into that and flourish.” 

As Marner begins this new chapter in Vegas, it’s clear that the Knights are gaining more than just top-tier talent. They’re welcoming a player whose priorities align with the culture they’ve built. 

PHOTO COURTESY: Golden Knights

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