The Maple Leafs were happy to keep an annual tradition going on Thursday.
The full team spent the afternoon at the Hospital for Sick Children, a yearly visit that goes back close to 100 years.
The players met with patients and their families at the hospital, handed out Leafs gifts, took photos and signed autographs.
Part of the visit included the Leafs and patients decorating mini-sticks together.
“It’s a very special time of the year, the holidays, and definitely difficult circumstances for many kids and families, what they’re going through,” John Tavares said. “To go there, brighten up a moment of their day, take their minds away from what they’re going through … You know how much this city loves their Maple Leafs, so it’s great to see their reactions, their excitement, how much they talk about watching us on TV and getting to see us, take some pictures, receive some gifts, interact.
“It’s always a lot of fun to take some time and spend it with them.”
Mitch Marner had a similar thought.
“Just trying to leave a good mark on those kids, on the families there,” Marner said. “It also impacts you as well. You get fans in there who have a lot of love for you and watch a lot of your games.
“It’s an emotional, fun day and something you look forward to.”
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