Toronto Maple Leafs Embark on New Season Amidst Roster and Leadership Changes

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a critical moment in their franchise history as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season. The team enters the new season on the heels of another early playoff exit, prompting a series of changes both on and off the ice.

After much speculation about the potential breakup of their core-player group following their latest first-round playoff exit, the Maple Leafs have opted to maintain their core four players. However, major changes have occurred off the ice. Former head coach Sheldon Keefe has departed, making way for Craig Berube, a strategic move that signals the franchise’s pursuit of immediate success.

In terms of player movements, the Maple Leafs have made significant changes to their defensive lineup. The team offloaded TJ Brodie, Mark Giordano, Joel Edmundson, and Ilya Lyubushkin, bringing in Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. Ekman-Larsson’s experience, including a recent Stanley Cup win with the Florida Panthers, is expected to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities.

The Leafs have also strengthened their goaltending roster by acquiring Anthony Stolarz, who will compete with Joseph Woll for the number one goaltender position. Although the offensive lineup remains largely similar, the departure of Tyler Bertuzzi marks a notable change. The organization aims to replace his output internally, through the development of promising prospects like Easton Cowan and Fraser Minten. They’ve also introduced Max Pacioretty on a professional tryout contract as an option for the top-nine forwards.

At the recent draft, Toronto focused on addressing defensive shortfalls, selecting defenseman Ben Danford with the 31st overall pick after a trade with the Anaheim Ducks. The Leafs have sought to deepen their defensive pipeline with physically adept players, while also diversifying their prospects by drafting Czech two-way center Miroslav Holinka and Russian forward Alexander Plesovskikh.

The Maple Leafs were faced with some organizational alterations following the draft when their head scout Wes Clark and regional scout Chris Roque moved to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In response, they hired Mark Leach from the Dallas Stars’ scouting team. Leach brings a wealth of experience and is expected to contribute to Toronto’s scouting success.

Among the prospects showing promise are Easton Cowan, who has demonstrated potential beyond expectations, and Fraser Minten, noted for his strong performance throughout last season despite a mid-season trade. Other prospects, like Nikita Grebenkin and Noah Chadwick, are also making strides towards potential NHL readiness.