The Toronto Maple Leafs are currently grappling with significant challenges, particularly following the departure of Mitch Marner. As the franchise progresses through the Auston Matthews era, the recurring theme of playoff disappointments looms large. Questions about the team’s shortcomings have permeated discussions, shifting focus to key leadership issues rather than individual player performance.
Leadership Challenges Following Marner’s Departure
After Marner left for Las Vegas in a sign-and-trade deal, the immediate impact on the Maple Leafs became evident. In their first 23 games, the team won only nine, placing them at a disadvantage compared to 14 teams in the Eastern Conference. They sit near the bottom of the standings, sustained only above the Buffalo Sabres.
General Manager Accountability
This troubling start has prompted General Manager Brad Treliving to take full responsibility. Treliving’s appointment followed tensions between Brendan Shanahan and former GM Kyle Dubas during the spring of 2023. In an effort to stabilize the franchise, Shanahan recruited Treliving, despite his mixed results in Calgary.
While Treliving claimed he needed time to understand the team before making changes, this strategy inadvertently solidified the Core Four’s place on the roster with no-trade contracts kicking in. As a result, his focus has been limited to minor adjustments rather than significant moves.
Coaching and Team Dynamics
In the wake of a disappointing playoff exit in 2024, Treliving hired Craig Berube as head coach. The intention was clear: transform the high-scoring Leafs into a tougher, defensively responsible team. However, the early results are concerning. The Maple Leafs have conceded more goals than all but three other teams, showcasing a troubling defensive trend.
Despite Berube’s remarkable success with the St. Louis Blues in the 2018-19 season, his coaching track record raises doubts. Treliving remarked, “Craig didn’t become a bad coach overnight,” emphasizing his confidence in Berube’s capabilities.
New Player Acquisitions and Impact
In an effort to reshape the roster, Treliving utilized the salary cap space generated by Marner’s exit. He brought in players like Matias Maccelli, Nicolas Roy, and Dakota Joshua, who collectively contributed 17 points. In contrast, Marner is thriving in Las Vegas with 21 points, including the best plus-minus rating on the Golden Knights.
- Team Performance: 9 wins in 23 games
- Eastern Conference Standing: Below 14 teams
- New Signings’ Points: 17 total
- Marner’s Points: 21 with Vegas
Despite the challenges, there is optimism. Veteran player John Tavares is having an exceptional year at age 35, and there remains potential for the team to recover from injuries and find a rhythm as the season progresses. Treliving’s patience with Berube indicates a long-term vision, but the urgency for improvement is clear.
