The Toronto Maple Leafs are finalizing their roster as opening night approaches. Head coach Craig Berube faces unexpected challenges following the injury of Scott Laughton, who will be sidelined for several weeks after blocking a shot in Detroit.
Maple Leafs Opening-Night Lineup: Roster Details
Forwards Breakdown
The current lineup features four forward lines:
- Line 1: Knies, Matthews, Domi
- Line 2: McMann, Tavares, Nylander
- Line 3: Maccelli, Roy, Joshua
- Line 4: Lorentz, Kämpf, Cowan (with Laughton injured)
Line 1: Knies, Matthews, Domi
Max Domi is the focal point of this line. His partnership with Auston Matthews is crucial. Historical performance indicates that when Domi played with Matthews, it resulted in numerous scoring opportunities.
- Shots per 60 mins: Domi 16.2 | Marner 11.8
- Goals per 60 mins: Domi 3.2 | Marner 1.6
- Points per 60 mins: Domi 4.9 | Marner 2.8
Domi must avoid penalties and maintain focus on puck management to stay on this line.
Line 2: McMann, Tavares, Nylander
Bobby McMann has a significant opportunity this season, especially in a contract year. His previous bests include 20 goals and 34 points, achieved last season.
McMann faces competition from players like Matias Maccelli and Calle Järnkrok. Maintaining a solid performance, both offensively and physically, will determine his role.
Line 3: Maccelli, Roy, Joshua
Maccelli previously thrived in a third-line role with the Coyotes. The combination with Roy and Joshua could create a powerful physical presence.
However, this line’s productivity hinges on finding the right chemistry. If Domi falters, Maccelli may be moved up the lineup.
Line 4: Lorentz, Kämpf, Cowan
With Laughton’s absence, David Kämpf’s role becomes pivotal. Questions arise about his potential waiver status and overall contribution this season.
Coach Berube has alternatives, including testing Lorentz or Järnkrok at the center position, but Kämpf remains the most experienced option.
Defensive Pairings and Goalies
The defensive lineup features stability this season:
- Pair 1: McCabe, Tanev
- Pair 2: Rielly, Carlo
- Pair 3: Ekman-Larsson, Benoit/Mermis/Thrun
Käpf has settled into a reliable first and second pairing, but uncertainties remain about the third pair and the backup goalie situation.
Goaltender Situation
Anthony Stolarz is set to start while Joseph Woll remains sidelined with an injury. Last season, Woll had 41 starts, showcasing his importance to the team’s success.
Depth in goal is a concern, and the addition of James Reimer could provide the necessary experience. The Maple Leafs will need to navigate October effectively, with 11 games scheduled, many of which involve back-to-backs.
Conclusion
As the Maple Leafs prepare for their opening night, adjustments are inevitable due to Laughton’s injury. Coach Berube will need to maximize his lineup’s potential while ensuring that emerging players like Cowan and McMann can contribute effectively.
