Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner welcomes first child ahead of crucial playoff game

Mitch Marner and his wife, Stephanie, have become parents for the first time. On Sunday, they welcomed a baby boy into their family. The Toronto Maple Leafs shared the joyful news with fans, saying Mitch Marner missed practice to be with his wife and newborn. The baby arrived just before Game 1 of the second-round playoffs. It was also just one day before Mitch Marner’s 28th birthday. Now, he's preparing to play with some fresh "dad energy."

Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner misses practice for biggest life moment
Sunday was a day like no other for Mitch Marner and his wife. They had their baby boy, and they became parents for the first time. Mitch Marner did not report to the Leafs' practice as he stayed back home to accompany his wife and baby. The team soon clarified that he did not attend due to the birth.

The announcement cheered fans on, and even NHL journalist Kristen Shilton shared news of it. She said , “Mitch Marner will be bringing dad energy to the second round! He and his wife Stephanie welcomed a baby boy today. Cute,” She referred to it as a delightful and thrilling development for the Leafs family.

Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner and his wife, Stephanie, welcomed the arrival of a baby boy this morning. Marner will not participate in today’s practice.

— Leafs PR (@LeafsPR) May 4, 2025

It was exactly one day ahead of Mitch Marner's birthday, which falls on May 5. So now he has two such special occasions to celebrate fatherhood and to hit 28 years of age.

Mitch Marner is all set to play for games
While the team trained at the Ford Performance Centre on Saturday and Sunday, Mitch Marner was not there. Saturday was voluntary, but Sunday's practice was their full preparation for Game 1 with the Florida Panthers. Mitch Marner skipped both, tending to his family and the new baby.


Mitch Marner contributed significantly during the first playoff round as his team, Maple Leafs, progressed. He achieved one goal and seven assists through six games. His intelligent passing and solid play ensured Toronto defeated Ottawa Senators and advanced to the second round.


Now, although he did miss some practices, Mitch Marner is likely to make it back in time for Monday's huge game. With his new status as a dad, he'll contribute even more heart and energy onto the ice.


Also Read: Mitch Marner: The Rise Of An NHL Superstar