Overview
- Marner logged his first NHL playoff hat trick Friday in a 6-2 Game 3 win over the Ducks, pushing Vegas ahead 2-1 in the series and putting him atop the postseason scoring race with 13 points.
- The run followed a two-goal, three-point night in a first-round Game 6 that closed out Utah and set the tone for his second-round surge.
- Coach John Tortorella rejected the old “choker” tag and praised Marner’s focus and two-way impact, while teammates said his voice and vision are driving their attack.
- Analysts link the breakout to a deeper Golden Knights lineup and stronger team defense that ease pressure compared with Toronto, though some critics argue weaker Western foes play a part.
- Vegas has deployed Marner at center more often in these playoffs, a shift observers say lets him carry the puck more and dictate entries and passes.