The Toronto Maple Leafs recently announced their Quarter-Century Team, celebrating standout players from the past 25 years. Current stars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner were honored as first-team forwards, alongside franchise legend Mats Sundin. Defensemen Morgan Rielly and Tomas Kaberle, along with goaltender Ed Belfour, completed the first-team lineup.
Auston Matthews, the Maple Leafs’ captain as of the 2024-25 season, has been a pivotal figure since his debut in 2016. Over 586 games, he has amassed 379 goals and 672 points, earning accolades such as the Hart Trophy and three Rocket Richard Trophies. Mitch Marner, joining the team in 2016 after being drafted in 2015, has recorded 207 goals and 690 points in 615 games, showcasing his consistent offensive contributions.
Morgan Rielly, the longest-serving current Maple Leaf, has spent his entire career in Toronto, accumulating 490 points over 830 games. His leadership and defensive prowess have been instrumental to the team’s success. Tomas Kaberle, a key defenseman from 1998 to 2011, tallied 520 points in 878 games, ranking second among defensemen in franchise history. Goaltender Ed Belfour, who played for Toronto between 2002 and 2006, maintained a .910 save percentage and a 2.56 goals-against average, solidifying the team’s defense during his tenure.
The second team featured notable players such as Phil Kessel, William Nylander, John Tavares, Bryan McCabe, Dion Phaneuf, and goaltender Curtis Joseph, each recognized for their significant contributions to the franchise.
This announcement underscores the rich talent that has been part of the Maple Leafs over the past quarter-century, highlighting both current and former players who have left an indelible mark on the team’s history.
In recent matchups, the Maple Leafs have demonstrated their prowess on the ice. Notably, on January 4, 2025, they secured a 6-4 victory against the Boston Bruins. Matthew Knies achieved his first NHL hat trick and contributed two assists, while Mitch Marner added a goal and four assists. Auston Matthews, returning from injury, also made a significant impact with a goal and two assists. This performance highlights the ongoing excellence of the players honored in the Quarter-Century Team.
