Leafs ‘open’ to experiment with Marner on defence in some situations

SPORTSCENTRE Reporter

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Top-line winger Mitch Marner has been taking some reps as a defenceman during training camp.    "There could be opportunities in games where we might want to give him a look on defence," explained coach Sheldon Keefe. "Whether we're trying to score a goal or playing from behind or whatever the case might be. That's something we'll continue to look at through the preseason and make a determination from there on how we might use it."   The Leafs boast an explosive offence, but Keefe sees the possibility for an upgrade when it comes to transition play and play at the offensive blue line.   Morgan Rielly racked up 68 points last season, which was 40 more than any other Leafs defenceman.   "Morgan's a real standout for us in terms of what he can contribute offensively, but at times you want to have another guy, in particular a right shot, to help with that," Keefe said. "Having Rasmus [Sandin] in the fold helps. [Jake] Muzzin, [T.J.] Brodie and [Mark] Giordano can contribute in their own way, but it's a little different feel there with someone like Mitch."    Marner's skill-set makes him a prime candidate for this type of experiment. He sees the ice incredibly well and is already a key part of Toronto's penalty kill.    "The more and more I watch how we move around in the offensive zone, Mitch spends a lot of time up at the blue line as it is," Keefe pointed out. "Obviously on the power play he plays up there quite a bit ... He's ran the power play from the top in a five-forward look in junior so he's got lots of experience doing that."   Marner took some reps alongside Rielly at practice on Thursday.    "I think he would do well," Rielly said before cracking a smile. "I think he would