'We're looked upon as gods': Maple Leafs' Marner after another 1st-round playoff exit

Mitch Marner says it "means the world" to be a member of the Maple Leafs.

The Toronto winger has taken heat from fans and media following the club's first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Boston Bruins where he put up just three points in the seven-game series.

The 27-year-old grew up just north of the city and cheered for the Leafs as a kid.

Marner has one season left on his big-money deal signed in 2019 and is eligible to ink an extension July 1.

He adds players in Toronto are almost looked upon as "gods" and that it would "be a goal" to stay with the team long-term.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe, meanwhile, was bullish on his own future behind the bench after Toronto suffered a fourth opening-round exit in five seasons under his watch.

“Obviously we’re looked upon as… you know, kind of gods here to be honest.” <br><br>Mitch Marner after another disappointing exit from his Maple Leafs <a href="https://twitter.com/spittinchiclets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@spittinchiclets</a> <br><br> <a href="https://t.co/mnWz8KUO0J">pic.twitter.com/mnWz8KUO0J</a>