Marleau thanks Matthews, Marner, says goodbye to Toronto after trade

Patrick Marleau doesn't use social media, but he still found a way to use Twitter to thank Toronto after he was traded Saturday.

Marleau posted a heartfelt message on his wife's social-media account thanking the Toronto Maple Leafs, forwards Auston Matthews and Mitchell Marner and fans after he was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Marleau signed a three-year contract with the Maple Leafs on July 2, 2017, and his family developed a very close relationship with Marner and Matthews. They famously created
a "family" Christmas card
in 2017 and earned a nomination
for Best Bromance
in the 2019 NHL Fan Choice Awards. Marleau made certain to acknowledge the bond they formed.
"To Auston and Mitch, a special thank you for welcoming us into the Maple] Leafs family and then becoming a part of ours," Marleau's message said. "You will always have a spot at our dinner table and extra sticks in our hockey room. … Never forget how good you guys are."
Marleau was traded with a conditional first-round pick and a seventh-round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft for a sixth-round pick in the 2020 draft.
Current and former Toronto players also made sure to thank Marleau for his contribution to the organization.
[Instagram from @auston\_matthews: Sad day today. What an honor it was to play with an unbelievable player and an even better person. Gonna miss sitting next to you in the room and seeing you every day. Thanks for welcoming me into your family and treating me like one of your own. I learned so much from you both on and off the ice and I'll cherish your friendship and the memories we had the last two years forever. My brother for life. Love you Patty
Tweet from @kasperikapanen1: I never thought I would have the honor to play with someone like Patty. The advice and guidance he gave me while I played with him is something that I will never forget. I am wishing all the best to you and your family. Thank you, you���re a legend.