The Toronto Maple Leafs are experiencing a troubling phase in their season, reminiscent of insights shared by Drew Doughty eight years ago. Doughty, a prominent player for the Los Angeles Kings, first remarked on the Leafs’ strengths and weaknesses on October 23, 2017. At that time, he noted the team’s offensive prowess but highlighted a glaring defensive weakness, stating they were allowing over three goals per game.
Drew Doughty’s Insight on Maple Leafs Defense
Fast forward to the current season, and the Maple Leafs find themselves in a similar position. They are again conceding more than three goals per game, with an average of 3.82, placing them at the bottom of the league defensively. Meanwhile, their offensive output remains impressive, ranking fourth with an average of 3.65 goals per game.
Current Team Challenges
Toronto’s recent struggles include a three-game losing streak. William Nylander, the team’s leading scorer, acknowledged these issues but expressed confidence in their ability to improve defensively. He noted, “Defensively we have been struggling, and that is something that can be fixed.” Nylander has been a standout performer, amassing 24 points in just 14 games this season.
- Notable Injuries:
- Auston Matthews is out with a lower body injury for approximately one week.
- Goaltender Anthony Stolarz is day-to-day due to an upper body injury.
These injuries have forced coach Craig Berube to rely on young players. The current goalie tandem is composed of Dennis Hildeby and Artur Akhtyamov. This situation unfolds just over a month into the season, creating uncertainty for the team.
Upcoming Game and Adjustments
For their next match against the Kings, Toronto plans to consolidate their remaining offensive talents. John Tavares will center a line with Nylander and Matthew Knies. The team will utilize five left-shot defensemen, and Hildeby will make his fourth appearance in goal.
Tavares emphasized the importance of overcoming this adversity: “If we’re gonna be a good team, we’ve got to win games in these situations.” Additionally, Berube conveyed the team’s need to maintain a positive mindset during this difficult stretch. While confidence remains in the players’ abilities, the team has yet to demonstrate a consistent turnaround.
Conclusion
As the Leafs navigate these challenges, the echoes of Doughty’s observations continue to resonate. The team must address its defensive deficiencies and adapt to the ongoing circumstances if they wish to draw upon their talent and experience to pull through this rough patch.
With a veteran group at their disposal, the Maple Leafs have the potential to overcome their current difficulties and once again become competitive in the league.
