The Toronto Maple Leafs are heading into the 2025-26 season with a slightly altered roster and heightened expectations. After some key changes in the offseason, here's a preview of what the Leafs' forward lines could look like.
Projected Forward Lines
While the exact combinations remain to be seen and could be adjusted during training camp, here’s a possible projection based on current information:
- First Line: Auston Matthews will likely center the top line, with Matthew Knies as a lock on the top line as well. With Mitch Marner's departure to the Vegas Golden Knights, the right-wing spot is open. Max Domi could be an option to play alongside Matthews.
- Second Line: William Nylander could stay with John Tavares on the second line to create a more balanced attack.
- Third and Fourth Lines: As of now, the depth starts to fade away on the third line, which is where the team may need to get creative with trades or free agency. Nic Roy and Dakota Joshua could be impactful additions to the bottom half.
Key Players and Projections
- Auston Matthews: As the Maple Leafs' captain, much of the team's success hinges on his performance. Entering his age-28 season, Matthews is projected to score around 91 points. A return to his 50- or 60-goal form would significantly boost the team's offense.
- William Nylander: Nylander is coming off a career-high 45 goals and is a consistent point producer. He is projected to score around 84 points.
- John Tavares: Tavares remains a key contributor, projected to score around 72 points. His experience and scoring touch are valuable assets.
- Matthew Knies: Knies is expected to take another step forward after a productive season. He is projected to score around 68 points and is expected to produce.
- Matias Maccelli: The Maple Leafs acquired Maccelli from the Utah Mammoth. There is hope Maccelli can replace Marner's production.
- Nick Robertson: With Marner's departure, Robertson has a prime opportunity to secure a top-six role and establish himself as a consistent scorer.
Prospects to Watch
The Maple Leafs have a few promising prospects who could make an impact in the future:
- Easton Cowan: Cowan is a skilled and hard-working forward with a knack for rising to the occasion.
- Tyler Hopkins: Hopkins is a defensive forward with good hockey sense.
- Tinus Luc Koblar: Koblar is a strong skater with a good understanding of the game.
Roster Changes and Additions
The Maple Leafs have made some changes to their roster:
- Departures: Mitch Marner was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. Pontus Holmberg signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
- Additions: Nicolas Roy was acquired in the trade for Marner. Matias Maccelli was brought in from the Utah Mammoth. The team also signed Vinni Lettieri, Benoit-Olivier Groulx, Travis Boyd, and Michael Pezzetta.
Areas for Improvement
- Top-Six Forward: The Maple Leafs are still interested in adding a top-six forward to bolster their offensive capabilities.
- Defensive Depth: The team could benefit from acquiring a depth defenseman or a top-four candidate.
