The Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating a season filled with both promise and challenges, with several key players and potential roster moves under scrutiny. From contract extension talks with Scott Laughton to strategic shifts for John Tavares and a reflective look at team performance, here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the Leafs.
Scott Laughton's Future in Toronto
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly interested in extending Scott Laughton's contract. Despite not meeting offensive expectations since being acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers at the 2025 trade deadline, Laughton has proven valuable in other facets of the game. According to David Pagnotta from "The Fourth Period," the Leafs and Laughton have engaged in extension talks. Although formal discussions haven't commenced, the Leafs want to keep Laughton beyond this season. The upcoming Olympic break may provide an opportunity to initiate contract talks.
Laughton's versatility, defensive contributions, and faceoff abilities are seen as assets. Head Coach Craig Berube has highlighted Laughton's effectiveness on faceoffs and the penalty kill. Laughton currently has seven points (five goals and two assists) in 28 games, along with 50 hits and a 59.9% faceoff win percentage. Despite initial struggles to adjust to the Leafs, Laughton has become a key shutdown forward and a major reason for the team's improved penalty kill, which currently ranks third in the NHL.
Strategic Role Change for John Tavares
The Maple Leafs are exploring ways to rejuvenate John Tavares' offensive game. His current performance has not met expectations, prompting discussions about a strategic move to the wing. This shift could reduce his defensive duties and enhance his ability to create offensive plays. A potential acquisition of Brayden Schenn could be a catalyst for this change, allowing Tavares to link with Schenn and William Nylander, potentially creating more offensive opportunities.
Tavares, 35, re-signed during the offseason on a team-friendly deal at $4.3M per season. This season, he has 17 goals and 42 points in 47 appearances. Recently, Tavares has shown signs of resurgence, with seven points in his last nine games.
Matias Maccelli's Evolving Role
Matias Maccelli's performance has been a topic of discussion, especially after a slow start to the season. After being a healthy scratch in December, Maccelli has shown improvement, registering three goals and five assists in 11 games. He has also become a valuable member of the Leafs' top power-play unit.
Maccelli's trade from the Utah Mammoth included a conditional pick. The Leafs gave up a 2027 conditional 3rd-round pick. If Maccelli scores 51 or more points and the team makes the playoffs, it turns into a 2029 2nd-Round pick. Coach Berube is looking to reintegrate Maccelli into the lineup, potentially as a showcase or a second chance.
Post-Mortem Reflections
As the season progresses, reflections on past playoff exits and team composition remain relevant. The Leafs' inability to translate regular-season success into postseason achievements has spurred discussions about potential changes to the core. Areas of focus often include the performance of star players, coaching strategies, and overall team construction.
