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Maple Leafs Enter Decision Window as Stars Near Return

The imminent return of Auston Matthews with Matthew Knies will show whether this roster can justify sticking with the current plan.

Overview

  • Toronto owns one of the East’s worst points percentages, a weak goal differential, and the fifth-highest goals against in the league.
  • Estimates indicate the team needs about 70 points from the final 58 games to contend, with a tougher, road-heavy slate reducing margin for error.
  • Craig Berube’s system is under scrutiny as the Leafs are getting badly outshot and have not fully adopted a more physical, defense-first identity.
  • Management is considering seller paths, including moving low-cost pieces such as Scott Laughton, Bobby McMann and Calle Jarnkrok, and leveraging up to three salary-retention slots to move higher-cost underperformers.
  • A broader teardown is being discussed, with open questions about Brad Treliving’s role and a realistic reassessment targeted around the end of December.