As the Toronto Maple Leafs wrap up their preseason, crucial decisions must be made before finalizing the roster and complying with salary cap requirements. However, with the regular season on the horizon, the Maple Leafs have shown promising signs that should give fans optimism. From player performances to strategic improvements, here’s a look at what we might know about the Maple Leafs and some of the choices the organization must make.
Item One: Max Pacioretty’s Future with the Maple Leafs: Uncertain?
After a promising start in the first preseason game, Max Pacioretty seemed like a sure bet to make the Toronto Maple Leafs’ roster. His speed, chemistry with John Tavares, and veteran presence indicated he could still contribute despite his injury history. However, as the preseason progressed, that certainty began to waver.
Pacioretty’s recent performances, particularly in the final preseason game, have raised concerns about his fit within head coach Craig Berube’s system. His north-south style of play seemed slightly out of sync with Berube’s preference for a more direct and structured approach from his forwards. In the last game, Pacioretty appeared slower and made some questionable decisions, including a risky cross-ice pass that led to Detroit’s opening goal—something Berube is likely to view as a significant issue.
While salary cap considerations won’t necessarily keep Pacioretty off the roster, his inability to fully adapt to the style Berube demands could. The Maple Leafs also have younger, faster players who might fit the team’s direction more effectively. At this stage, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Leafs decide to give the roster spot to a player who aligns better with their system moving forward.
Item Two: Berube’s Defensive System Impresses
One of the most surprising aspects of the preseason has been the effectiveness of Craig Berube’s defensive system, particularly how well the younger players and depth contributors have adapted. Throughout most preseason games, including the final matchup against Detroit, Toronto’s defense has successfully limited opponents’ scoring opportunities, even against established regular-season lineups.
In the last game, the Maple Leafs started off slowly, but their defense tightened up significantly after the first period, allowing just one shot on goal over the next 31 minutes. This dominating performance effectively stifled Detroit’s offense and enabled the Maple Leafs to secure a 3-2 victory. The ability of Toronto’s young players and depth guys to execute Berube’s north-south defensive style demonstrates considerable potential. If they can maintain this high level of performance, it will challenge the veterans to raise their game accordingly.
The takeaway? Berube’s defensive system is working, and it’s a style that can win games. As the regular season nears, the team’s ability to maintain this structure on defence will be essential to their success.
Item Three: Several Maple Leafs Players Showed Well During the Game
In the Maple Leafs’ 3-2 preseason victory over the Red Wings, several players stood out, showcasing their impact on the game. The fourth line, featuring Steven Lorentz and Ryan Reaves, was particularly crucial, providing the physical play that led to Toronto’s opening goal. Lorentz impressed by winning battles along the boards and finishing off a one-timer set up by Reaves after they generated pressure in the offensive zone. Their tenacity established the tone for a more physical brand of hockey that head coach Craig Berube likely aims to implement.
Auston Matthews and John Tavares also demonstrated their offensive prowess, notably on the power play, contributing to a goal each. Matthews showcased his lethal one-timer from the faceoff circle, with Mitch Marner providing the assist—a reminder of how dangerous Toronto’s man advantage can be. Marner played a pivotal role in both power-play goals, making smart puck plays and demonstrating his hustle by keeping the puck in the zone to set up Tavares for his tally. Overall, the contributions from these players were instrumental in securing the win for Toronto.
Item Four: Head Coach Craig Berube Has Looked Surprisingly Good This Preseason
Head coach Craig Berube’s system and decision-making were on full display during the Maple Leafs’ preseason, particularly in the final game against the Red Wings. Despite a rocky start, allowing two early goals, the team’s defensive structure showed significant improvement as the game progressed. After the shaky beginning, the defense tightened up remarkably. From the middle of the first period through deep into the third, Toronto allowed only one shot on goal over a span of 31 minutes, demonstrating a lockdown defensive performance.
This impressive defensive display was largely achieved by younger and depth players, indicating that Berube’s system is not only effective but also being quickly absorbed by players, regardless of their experience level. This bodes well for the Maple Leafs moving forward, as it suggests that the team’s commitment to a disciplined, structured defensive game could become a cornerstone of their strategy this season. If the younger players can continue to execute Berube’s vision effectively, it will likely push the veterans to elevate their performance as well.
Second, Berube’s strategic adjustments proved effective, especially on the power play. By deploying Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, Matthew Knies, Morgan Rielly, and Chris Tanev as a unit late in the power play, Berube set the stage for Matthews’ goal. This lineup balanced offensive firepower with defensive awareness, showcasing Berube’s ability to make smart tactical decisions that capitalize on his players’ strengths.
Berube’s north-south style of play is clearly resonating with the team, as evidenced by the success of his strategies. If the younger players can maintain this level of performance, it could push the veterans to adapt and elevate their games. This dynamic could foster a competitive atmosphere within the team, ultimately enhancing the overall performance of the Maple Leafs as they prepare for the regular season.
What’s Next for the Maple Leafs?
The Maple Leafs are indeed at a critical juncture as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season. With players like Max Pacioretty on the bubble, it’s a tense time for both management and the coaching staff. Head coach Craig Berube will need to assess not just individual talent but how each player fits into his system, which is essential for building a cohesive unit.
The preseason performances of younger prospects and depth players have added an exciting dynamic to the roster decisions. This competition could lead to some unexpected cuts, as Treliving must weigh the benefits of experience against the fresh energy and potential of emerging players.
With the looming deadline for final roster submissions, Treliving has to navigate the salary cap carefully. The uncertainty surrounding Pacioretty could open doors for younger talents eager to prove themselves in the NHL. These decisions will not only impact the Maple Leafs’ immediate lineup but also define the team’s overall strategy and identity as they strive for success in the 2024-25 season.
As fans await the final cuts, the spotlight will be on which players seize the opportunity and which veterans might find themselves on the outside looking in. The coming days are indeed critical, and it will be fascinating to see how these choices shape the team moving forward.
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