With Mrazek and the weather cold, Leafs look to simplify and enjoy the moment

SPORTSCENTRE Reporter

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What did Mitch Marner think as he faced freezing conditions at Saturday's practice?

"Holy crap, this is cold," the winger said with a smile. "That was the first reaction, to be fairly honest."

"It was crazy when we got out there," agreed winger William Nylander. "Everybody was pretty cold in the wind and then you had the snow blowing around. It was pretty special. It was almost like you were a kid." 

It's expected to be less windy by puck drop on Sunday, but the temperature will still be frigid. Of the 20 players dressing for Toronto on Sunday, half will be taking part in their first National Hockey League outdoor game. Centre John Tavares is urging his teammates to not overthink the elements. 

"It should be a tremendous feel," said the Leafs captain, who has suited up in one previous outdoor game. "It's something different. Just try and enjoy it. If you're enjoying it you seem to feel better about things out there."

John Tavares on having his two young sons at Leafs family skate: “I think the cold got to them. They probably would’ve been sleeping an hour ago. They got pretty fatigued and it was cool out there, but it was fun to skate around with them and have them be a part of it.” https://t.co/SGUwlDI8VN

It's important for the Leafs to help Petr Mrazek feel better about things. He was pulled after allowing four goals on 12 shots on Thursday against the Arizona Coyotes. Mrazek's save percentage has dipped to .884 on the season.  

"We know he's going to play with confidence," insisted centre Auston Matthews. "That's just the type of guy he is. I don't think stuff like this really rattles him. I know he wants to be better and wants to be a great goaltender for us and there's no