The Toronto Marlies claimed the Calder Cup after defeating the Wolves in the final. Several players from the American Hockey League champions are expected to provide depth for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The last Toronto Marlies left the rink nearly two hours after their Calder Cup victory. Blue confetti covered the ice as players including Easton Cowan, Ben Danford, Jacob Quillan and playoff MVP Artur Akhtyamov celebrated.
Veterans such as Vinni Lettieri, who led playoff scorers with 26 points, Bo Groulx with 14 points and defenceman William Villeneuve with 21 assists stood out. Landon Sim also impressed with big hits during the postseason.
Michael Pezzetta said after the game, “This is so special and for a lot of us, the first time we’ve won anything. Now we’re connected forever.” Landon Sim added that he gained experience in big games and enjoyed winning again with Cowan.
Head coach John Gruden noted the difficulty of the five-series playoff run and said the victory gives the group a winning pedigree. The team is scheduled to hold a semi-private victory party on Monday.
