The ascension of the Toronto Maple Leafs was dealt a near-fatal blow early on Tuesday morning as a key cog of the future juggernaut decided to pack his things and head to Europe.
Elite talent Mark Arcobello, he of 3 goals and 4 points in 20 games with the Leafs in 2015-16 will not return to the organization for a second season. He has instead opted to sign a two-year deal with SC Bern of the Swiss League.
Despite his short stint with the minor-league affiliate Leafs, Arcobello spent the bulk of his season with the elite Marlies team, putting up an excellent 59 points in 49 games.
It seems the writing was on the wall for Arcobello in Toronto. He never stuck with the Leafs, who now seem committed to at least Nazem Kadri, William Nylander, Auston Matthews, and Tyler Bozak ahead of him on the depth chart for the time being. There's rumblings they may also try to woo prize free agent Steven Stamkos, which makes no sense because you could have, like, TEN Arcobellos for that price!
Alas, we'll always have the memories of the one game responsible for two-thirds of his goals. Farewell, gentle prince.