Previewing the Toronto Maple Leafs’ Forward and Defense Configurations
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been active at the onset of the NHL free-agency period. Whether these moves will prove beneficial remains a topic of debate.
There is a prevailing sentiment among myself and colleagues that the Toronto Maple Leafs appear to lack a clear strategic direction for the club.
Nevertheless, it’s worthwhile to examine the prospective lineup based on the current roster configuration. This lineup, subject to change before opening night, is sourced from Daily Faceoff and offers insights into potential deployment strategies under coach Craig Berube.
Before delving into the projected lines, a few assumptions: Mitch Marner remains on the team, Nick Robertson is excluded due to trade requests, and there are no significant injuries.
Projected Toronto Maple Leafs Lineup:
Forward Lines:
According to Daily Faceoff, the potential forward combinations are as follows:
– Matthew Knies – Auston Matthews – Mitch Marner
– Bobby McMann – John Tavares – William Nylander
– Pontus Holmberg – Max Domi – Calle Jarnkrok
– Connor Dewar – David Kampf – Ryan Reaves
The top line featuring Matthews and Marner appears solid, though Knies might not be the ideal fit. McMann could be a better complement due to his work ethic, fitting Berube’s style.
For the second line, there’s a suggestion of trying Max Domi at center with Tavares and Nylander on the wings, a potentially unconventional move that could generate discussion.
In the bottom-six, utilizing Ryan Reaves strategically in specific roles and considering alternatives like Alex Steeves could enhance overall depth.
Defensive Pairings:
Projected defense pairings from Daily Faceoff are:
– Morgan Rielly – Chris Tanev
– Oliver Ekman-Larsson – Timothy Liljegren
– Jake McCabe – Simon Benoit
While the defensive pairs look sturdy, there are reservations about Ekman-Larsson’s suitability in the top-four, suggesting he might be better suited for a third-pair role alongside Liljegren. McCabe and Benoit, noted for their physical play, could warrant more ice time.
Goaltending:
Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz are anticipated to form the goaltending tandem, a plan that emerged after missing out on other goaltending options.
The potential success of this duo hinges on Woll’s health and disciplined defensive play in front of them.
Overall Assessment:
The Maple Leafs’ roster resembles that of the Florida Panthers from last season, anchored by Matthews and supported by solid defensive depth.
However, concerns persist over depth and potential injuries, factors that could impact performance.
With cohesive team management and focus under Berube, there’s optimism about capitalizing on opportunities in the division, particularly with potential regression among rivals like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers.
