As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare for the 2025-26 season, several key questions remain, and the performances of bubble players and the integration of new additions will be critical to the team's success.

One of the biggest questions revolves around which players will step up and provide the extra edge needed to overcome the playoff hurdle. The team is at a pivotal moment where the right decisions could significantly shape their future. The Atlantic Division is also becoming increasingly competitive, with teams like the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens looking poised for postseason success. This means the Maple Leafs will need depth players to prove their worth while also figuring out how to best utilize their new acquisitions.

Several fringe forwards are vying for roster spots and bigger roles. These players may not be household names, but they have the potential to surprise if things go their way. Meanwhile, some former Maple Leafs prospects, like Joseph Blandisi and Ty Voit, have moved on to continue their careers elsewhere. Blandisi is reportedly signing with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL, while Voit is expected to join the Utah Grizzlies in the ECHL.

The Leafs have been actively trying to add depth this offseason, but have also seen some of their lesser-known players leave as their roles diminished. Nick Abruzzese and Alex Steeves have already found new teams, and Dennis Hildeby is still without a contract. The departure of Voit is somewhat surprising, as he is still young and has potential. Blandisi's exit may be due to a logjam at the forward position.

The Maple Leafs have found success with professional tryouts (PTOs) in the past, with Max Pacioretty being a recent example. Jack Roslovic, who has been linked to the Maple Leafs, is reportedly drawing interest from KHL teams, which may be causing a delay in his signing. Toronto's limited cap space is also a factor, as they may need to trade veteran contracts to create room for Roslovic, who is seeking around $3 million per season.

Easton Cowan's performance could be a key factor in the Maple Leafs' season. Other storylines include the possibility of trading Nick Robertson, Kyle Clifford joining the team's player development staff after retiring, and William Nylander potentially leaving the Maple Leafs in the future. It has been suggested that the Maple Leafs haven't changed enough of their culture this offseason.