Mitch Marner's return to Toronto sparked a reaction no one expected

With the highly anticipated return of Mitch Marner to Scotiabank Arena after being traded this offseason, the atmosphere was expected to be hostile at the very least.

He was public enemy number one and many thought that maybe a chorus of boos would follow Marner throughout the game, or whenever he was mentioned.

They certainly would have booed him during the team's tribute video to Marner, however the response was something you wouldn't expect from Leafs Nation given how loyal they are.

Despite Marner's actions and comments regarding the fanbase, the fans decided to take the high road and cheered Marner as the team paid tribute to their former superstar:

Of course there is going to be some detractors but the general sentiment from the game is that Marner is disliked sure, but there's no reason to go after him now.

Marner acknowledged the crowd and you can tell there was genuine love for him even if he's no longer a part of the team, and it's great to see the fans take things in stride and still give him his dues.

Due to John Tavares' frosty reception every time he comes to Long Island; especially during his tribute video, there was reason to believe the Maple Leafs faithful wouldn't take too kindly to Marner regardless of if he produced during the game or not.

This was the finale of the Mitch Marner saga. He made his return home, got his tribute video, and it wasn't as hostile as anyone expected.

Now it's time for everyone to move on from things. Marner, the Maple Leafs, and the fans. It's just business and nothing personal, and it looks like both sides have agreed to disagree and just move on with things -- as they should.

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