Five Reasons for Optimism Surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs
Despite the absence of Mitch Marner to begin the season, there are several factors pointing towards a potentially successful year for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Here are five reasons for optimism as the team enters the 2024-25 campaign:
1. Increased Two-Way Forward Depth: The Leafs have significantly altered their forward composition, moving away from players with limited roles. The addition of former Golden Knights forward, whose identity remains undisclosed in this analysis, provides a veteran presence alongside Dakota Joshua and Matias Maccelli. This trio is expected to contribute offensively while also being capable of handling challenging defensive matchups. This allows Auston Matthews and John Tavares greater freedom to focus on offensive production.
2. Departure of one-Dimensional Players: The Leafs’ forward depth chart has been streamlined by the departure of players who offered limited versatility. Ryan Reaves was traded to San Jose, and David Kämpf has been moved to an extra roster role. This shift contrasts with previous seasons where players where utilized primarily for physicality without notable offensive contribution. Nick Robertson, a regular on the third line last season, is currently projected to be outside the top 12 forwards.
3. Full Season with Deadline Acquisitions: The Leafs will benefit from having Brandon Carlo for a full 82-game season.Carlo played only 20 regular season games last year after being acquired at the trade deadline. His presence strengthens the top six defensemen, providing stability and allowing Morgan Rielly more freedom to contribute offensively. The established defensive pairings used during the playoffs will be in place from the start of the season,representing an upgrade in consistency. Scott Laughton, also acquired at the deadline, will have a full season to integrate into the team and potentially exceed his initial performance of two goals and four points in 20 games.
4.Scott Laughton’s Potential for Increased Offense: While Scott Laughton filled a 4th line center role effectively in the playoffs, coach Berube may explore utilizing him higher in the lineup. laughton has averaged 15 goals and 37 points per 82 games over the past five seasons, suggesting he possesses offensive capabilities beyond what was displayed in his limited regular season games with the Leafs.
5. Cap Adaptability for Further Additions: The leafs currently possess significant cap space, estimated at over $6 million, and can free up an additional $4 million through potential trades involving players like Nick Robertson, David Kämpf, or Calle Järnkrok. This financial flexibility allows the team to pursue additional forward help, ideally a top-line winger to play alongside Knies and Matthews. While the Leafs may lack a wealth of draft picks and prospects, their cap space provides a unique prospect to be creative in acquiring impactful players.The team’s strategy involves evaluating the current lineup for 40-50 games before potentially adding a key piece to address specific needs.
