At 33 I'm expecting more out of my $11 million captain.
Marner played like crap no doubt but with the opponent we had Marner shouldn't have had to be the X-Factor in such a close series. We have plenty of other high priced talent and playoff performers this year. Marner being the whipping boy is old news.
By X factor, do you mean do something to help us win a game like Matthews (Game 2) Tavares (Game 5) and Nylander (Game 6)? Marner had that chance in game 7... a gift from Swayman and instead of trying to tuck the puck short side and maybe take a hit from the intimidating Zacha... he decided to go for a skate in the corner and the opportunity was lost.
He did nothing to help us win that series. So there is at least some rationale for Marner being unpopular.. add his lack of media savvy and his previous contract issue... it's a cauldron of shit.
As much as I was upset with yet another loss.. I have come to at least be glad I'm not an Oilers fan... Leaf fans think the Leafs are unlikeable.. man.. That Oilers team is hateful... Just give us Hyman back.