Patrick Marleau is ecstatic to play his first game with the Leafs

Patrick Marleau has been a Toronto Maple Leaf for just two months now, since signing a three-year, $18.75-million free agent contract on July 2. 

A TSN article from Toronto Maple Leafs reporter Kristen Shilton highlights the excitement from the veteran about joining his new team.

“After being in the playoffs last year, you don’t really see it as a rebuilding team. They’re a playoff team,” he said. “[They’re] a team that’s up and coming and has all those things we’ve been talking about. With the speed and the structure that’s been implemented the last couple years, [it’s] going to go a long way.”

Marleau posted his lowest point total ever when playing 82 games (27 goals, 19 assists) last season in San Jose. He has the chance to potentially play alongside Auston Matthews this season. The promise of being surrounded with so much youthful talent was a major draw for Marleau. 

“I want to get out there and see it up close,” he said. “Being on the west coast, you’re able to watch the games before your games, and it’s very exciting watching YouTube highlights of these guys. Everything everyone has been saying – you can see it. [They’re] fast, talented. Seeing the great young players, prospects, talking to Lou [Lamoriello], talking to Mike [Babcock]. Just how they feel about the group and where they see things going is why I’m here.”

Marleau has played under head coach Mike Babcock during the Olympics and knows what to expect.

 “I know he expects a lot out of his players, he pushes them, and I’m looking forward to that challenge,” Marleau said. “I think the biggest thing with the coaches, and especially with Babs, is they’re able to change on the fly and have confidence in their players that they can make in-game adjustments.”

Marleau turns 38 this month and will look for this fountain of youth to jump start his own game in his 20th NHL season.