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[Toronto Maple Leafs]

What does a successful 2025-26 season look like for Simon Benoit?

Simon Benoit was the positive surprise of the 2023-24 season for the Toronto Maple Leafs and he followed up by establishing himself firmly as the team’s No. 6 defenceman under Craig Berube’s supervision during the 2024-25 campaign. Benoit’s game took a major leap during Toronto’s road trip in March and he never looked back, culminating in a clutch overtime winner against the Ottawa Senators in Game 3 of the first round.

Benoit’s game, at its best, is predicated on simplicity. He’s tasked with clearing opponents out of the high-danger areas, getting quick exits out of the defensive zone and communicating with Oliver Ekman-Larsson during rush scenarios. It may be unrealistic to expect Benoit to maintain his post-March form, where his game took another leap, but it’s more than reasonable to expect him to cut the unforced errors out of his game during his second year with Berube behind the bench.

The goal: Continue to eradicate undisciplined penalties from his game

Benoit is a physical defenceman who welcomes contact, and toughness is part of the reason why he was a mainstay in the lineup last year, playing in 78 regular season games and all 13 postseason games. No one wants Benoit to shy away from these elements of his game, but discipline remains the primary issue. Benoit took 22 minor penalties at 5-on-5 last season, tied for the 28th-highest total in the league. When you assess the company Benoit’s in, it’s clear that he’s taking penalties at a much greater rate than some of the star players who play greater than 17 minutes per night.

This is the goal for Benoit: continue to maintain a level of physicality that can help establish the tone for the Maple Leafs, while cutting out undisciplined penalties that are often the result of poor positioning or unnecessarily risky routes to the puck.

The expectation: Maintain his spot as the Leafs’ No. 6 defenceman while clearing opponents from net-front

We’re not expecting a grand leap from Benoit, but the 26-year-old can still clean up certain elements of his game, and will need to continue to clear opponents out of high-danger areas. Toronto controlled only 40 percent of the expected goals when Benoit was on the ice at 5-on-5, but he sported a plus-10 goal differential as well. This may spell some regression from Benoit, and it’s incumbent upon the veteran defenceman to maintain good habits, while trying to get pucks north.

No one is expecting Benoit to enter the rush with greater frequency or start shooting pucks indiscriminately at the net, but it’s just a matter of playing a simple, mistake-free game, while snarling at his on-ice rivals. Benoit has made leaps during his tenure with the Maple Leafs, and it’ll be compelling to see if he has another half-tier left in his development.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/what-does-successful-2025-26-season-look-simon-benoit

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

A brand new year with same Stanley Cup expectations begins at Leafs and Legends Charity Golf Classic

MILTON, Ontario — For a team that gets discussed with the same intensity and tenor of most Parliamentary hearings, there’s certainly a lighter air surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs. Carlton The Bear is happily dapping up anyone in his vicinity. Darryl Sittler is in attendance at the RattleSnake Point Golf Club in Milton, Ontario and few players are better equipped to discuss the unique pressure surrounding this hockey team. Media scrutiny is an attendant part of playing for the Maple Leafs, but the notion of what constitutes fair criticism has been discussed ad nauseam, it’s time to turn the page, with the same Stanley Cup expectations still present.

“First of all, enjoy the day,’ Sittler said with a smile. “Today is one of the last days they have before they start training camp, and I know every season you look forward to training camp. We got new players on the team, so you’re looking to blend in with them and obviously have a good training camp and a good year. Look forward to it. Maybe this is the year finally those hockey gods will be with us and we could win a few rounds and challenge for the Cup.”

Toronto revamped its forward corps this season, with the idea of being equipped for the playoffs. Mitch Marner, who may or may not be persona non grata, is a member of the Vegas Golden Knights, and a committee featuring Dakota Joshua, Nicolas Roy and Matias Maccelli are here to fill the void left by the 102-point winger. Auston Matthews and William Nylander are still among the best players in the world, while the Maple Leafs return their entire defence corps and starting goaltenders. There will always be pressure on the Maple Leafs, but a few extra eyeballs is no issue for Roy.

“It’ll be different for sure. Big market, Canada. I mean it’s always nice to have a little pressure. That’s what you play for,” Roy said.

“ I’ve been here for a few weeks getting with the guys.  We have a really good group and the pace is actually really, really fast before I came out there. The guys are ready.  Been working out a lot too, nice little scrimmage there, and a good skate. So, excited to start things pretty soon.”

Roy won a Stanley Cup with the Golden Knights and he’s the physical, right-shot centre the team needed. He’s not going to be rattled by the pressure of the market and his physicality, along with his ability to get the net-front are assets that head coach Craig Berube surely covet. And there’s a commonality here as well, as Roy’s probable linemate looks forward to shaking off a nightmare year and returning to top form.

Joshua was diagnosed with testicular cancer in July 2024, returned to game action in November 2024, and was traded to the Maple Leafs on July 17. The 29-year-old was caught by surprise by the trade, but the Maple Leafs represent a new opportunity for him to get back to the career-best form he displayed two seasons ago.

“It was a difficult time and tough to go through, but in the end, I’m very lucky and thankful that I got it taken care of early on and no real major side effects after recovering,” Joshua said. “So just to go through that and be thankful to still be playing at the highest level. And then, once again, putting it behind me and just moving forward and getting back to the player I know I am.”

Joshua is familiar with playing under Berube, stemming from their shared tenure with the St. Louis Blues during the 2021-22 season. It’s clear that he’s going to play exactly to what Berube envisions from his third line, a group that will likely feature Joshua, Roy and Bobby McMann or Nick Robertson to begin training camp.

“He’s a very straightforward coach,” Joshua said. “You know what he expects out of you. He’s easy to play for in the fact of there’s no grey area. He likes it north-south. As long as you can compete, he’s a great coach to play for.”

And as long as you can compete, the expectations of playing for the Maple Leafs become easier to manage. Toronto will be tasked with making a deep run once again in the first year of the post-Marner era. It’s a brand new year, with some new faces, but the same Stanley Cup expectations are in place. And if you’re prone to thinking ‘same old Leafs’ no one would fault you, but it’s a new team with some championship pedigree, with players who have overcome macabre outcomes that transcend sports. Let the games begin.

Sponsored by bet365​

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/bra...onto-maple-leafs-legends-charity-golf-classic

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Signing Dillon Dube doesn’t make sense for the Leafs: Alberga’s Take

On October 15th, the five Hockey Canada players who were acquitted of all sexual assault charges in late July in London, will be eligible to sign NHL contracts.

With that in mind, it didn’t take long for the Leafs to get officially linked to Dillon Dube.

On the surface, it makes sense. Brad Treliving knows the player extremely well from his time in Calgary. After all, it was Treliving who drafted the 27-year-old forward in 2016 out of the Western Hockey League.

Having said all that, unless Toronto views Dube as a bona fide upgrade over what they already have in the top six, the fit doesn’t really seem to be there right now.

In fact, entering camp, the Leafs possess an influx of forwards, something they will likely have to address – at some point – over the next few weeks. Furthermore, it’s been out there all summer, but there’s no question that the Leafs are open for business. Nick Robertson, Calle Jarnkrok, and David Kampf, among others, are available for trade. And they have been for a while.

During his appearance Monday morning on TSN 1050’s First Up, NHL Insider Darren Dreger said that he “wouldn’t be surprised if Treliving and the Leafs put their hat in the ring and take a decent swing at Dillon Dube.”

For starters, Dube hasn’t taken a National Hockey League shift since January 18th, 2024. Like a lot of players, he’s had some consistency issues over the years. In fact, prior to his NHL suspension, he was routinely playing less than 10 minutes a night. Who knows what was happening behind the scenes there, but he was far from a fixture in that Calgary Flames lineup. Suffice it is to say, Dube has a lot still to prove on the ice.

This one’s a tough one for me: To suggest Dube can successfully return and plop right into the top six is a big stretch. Let’s call a spade a spade: He’s a bottom-six player until proven otherwise. So, in essence, he would be just another option for Craig Berube to try with the big boys. He hasn’t done much in his career to cement himself as a player worthy of consistent big-time minutes. Like the Nick Robertsons of the world, he’s shown glimpses, but there’s still plenty of room to grow.

As mentioned, the potential intrigue makes sense, though. Dube did pot back-to-back 18 goal campaigns under Treliving. For my money, though, the Leafs already have plenty of Dillon Dube type players. He’s not a difference maker, he’s a complimentary piece. In a perfect world, he’s probably in your bottom-six. I just don’t know where the fit would be.

Things can change over the next month, but right now, Toronto’s not in a position to add another depth forward, especially someone coming off a lengthy suspension. I don’t see this one happening, folks.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/sig...-make-sense-toronto-maple-leafs-albergas-take

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Maple Leafs without Mitch Marner: By the numbers

There are going to be a lot of questions about the Maple Leafs as training camp starts this week but the one big question that most of those other questions will link back to is “what will the Leafs look like without Mitch Marner?”. The answer to that question isn’t going to come in training camp, the preseason, or likely even the first 20 games. It’s going to take a lot of time to figure out what the Leafs will be. They are certainly down a superstar, but you can also say that their lineup card has the potential to be more balanced. On paper the Leafs look a lot tougher to play against. And while Marner was only one player his absence is a significant change in direction.

The Leafs don’t have a lot of history of playing without Marner to look back on. He’s been a pretty healthy player, but looking at the past five years, the Leafs have done surprisingly well when he hasn’t been in the lineup and their 15-8-3 record still puts the Maple Leafs with a .634 points percentage over those games, which is a drop off from Marner being in the lineup but still shows the Maple Leafs are a playoff team.

It’s also probably worth noting that when Marner was out of the lineup his spot was being filled by Marlies, not taking his $10.93M cap hit and applying it to an upgraded roster. Maybe that points to the Leafs baseline being a 104 point team based on that small sample size with some room to improve.

Here’s the breakdown of the Leafs without Marner season by season:

2024-25: 1-0-0

One game without Mitch Marner. A win against the Calgary Flames on February 4th. Nylander had a hat trick, Matthews 3 assists, Knies 2 point night, and McMann and Tavares also scored.

2023-24: 8-4-1

Game 51 vs. Blues (4-1 win, McMann hat trick)
Game 64 vs. Canadiens (3-2 win)
Game 65 vs. Flyers (6-4 win)
Game 66 vs. Hurricanes (5-4 shootout loss)
Game 67 vs. Flyers (4-3 loss)
Game 68 vs. Capitals (7-3 win, Matthews 5 point night, Domi 4 assist night)
Game 69 vs. Oilers (6-3 win)
Game 70 vs. Hurricanes (2-1 loss)
Game 71 vs. Devils (6-3 loss)
Game 72 vs. Capitals (5-1 win)
Game 73 vs. Sabres (3-0 win)
Game 74 vs. Panthers (6-4 win)
Game 75 vs. Lightning (4-1 loss)

2022-23: 1-1-0

Game 76 vs. Red Wings (5-2 loss)
Game 81 vs. Lightning (4-3 win)

2021-22: 5-3-2

Game 25 vs. Wild (4-3 shootout loss)
Game 26 vs. Jets (6-3 loss)
Game 27 vs. Blue Jackets (5-4 win, Rielly 4 assists)
Game 28 vs. Lightning (5-3 loss)
Game 29 vs. Blackhawks (5-4 win)
Game 30 vs. Oilers (5-1 win)
Game 33 vs. Avalanche (5-4 overtime loss)
Game 34 vs. Golden Knights (4-3 shootout win)
Game 35 vs. Coyotes (2-1 loss)
Game 82 vs. Bruins (5-2 win)

2020-21: No games missed

There certainly isn’t much that can be gleaned from a one game absence at the end of last season nor any of this really, but the 7-4-1 extended stretch of Marner being out during 2023-24 is likely the best and most encouraging stretch to consider.

Here’s how the current Leafs produced over that 12 game stretch that saw Toronto jump to four goals for per game (48 total) and 3.08 goals against per game (37 total):

G	A	P
Matthews	9	10	19
Tavares	5	9	14
Nylander	6	5	11
Domi	1	9	10
McMann	5	1	6
Knies	1	5	6
Rielly	0	6	6
Robertson	4	1	5
Kampf	2	2	4
McCabe	1	2	3
Jarnkrok	0	1	1
Benoit	0	1	1

The overall numbers are interesting and maybe reflect the Keefe era of offence being king but understandably with a strong two-way player like Marner being absent the Leafs attempted to score their way out of trouble. There was a spike in both goals for and goals against, but it is unlikely that Craig Berube is committing to a season of this approach after last season already being a giant pendulum swing back towards conservative hockey at 5v5.

Knies’ numbers come with the reminder that he wasn’t playing with Auston Matthews during that stretch, Matthews was on a line with Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi. Knies’ 0.5 point-per-game pace was solid for a rookie.

Matthews’ nine goals certainly don’t look bothersome during Marner’s absence but considering that he was on a pace for over 70 goals that season and with Marner’s absence he dropped to a 61 goal pace does show that Marner’s playmaking over the likes of Domi or others will impact Auston.

Marner’s departure without a big name replacement doesn’t break the Leafs and even if there wasn’t any attempt to replace him, it seems like the Maple Leafs would be fine, but saying that his impact won’t be felt and at times hinder the Leafs over the next 82 games isn’t true either.

Things will be different but when the same core under three different coaches over the last eight seasons hasn’t achieved the expected results, change at the top of the roster makes a lot of sense and brings more excitement than fear.

Data from Hockey Reference

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-without-mitch-marner-by-numbers

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Maple Leafs officially announce 2025 training camp roster

Ahead of Thursday’s on-ice session, the Toronto Maple Leafs officially announced their 2025 training camp roster. It will be a busy camp, as 44 forwards, 23 defencemen and six goaltenders have been invited to training camp.

Toronto held its training camp media day on Wednesday, where Brad Treliving, Craig Berube, Auston Matthews, Morgan Rielly and John Tavares spoke to reporters about the offseason and what lies ahead this year.

Here is the full roster:

Forwards: Brandon Baddock, Matthew Barbolini, Travis Boyd, Easton Cowan, Max Domi, Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, Luke Grainger, Bo Groulx, Luke Haymes, Matthew Hlacar, Miroslav Holinka, Tyler Hopkins, Calle Jarnkrok, Reese Johnson, Marc Johnstone, Dakota Joshua, David Kampf, Ben King, Ryan Kirwan, Matthew Knies, Braeden Kressler, Scott Laughton, Vinny Lettieri, Steven Lorentz, Matias Maccelli, Auston Matthews, Sam McCue, Bobby McMann, Harry Nansi, Alexander Nylander, William Nylander, Cedric Pare, Michael Pezzetta, Nick Rheaume, Nick Robertson, Nicolas Roy, Logan Shaw, Landon Sim, Marko Sikic, Sam Stevens, John Tavares, Ryan Tverberg, Borya Valis

Defencemen: Simon Benoit, Matt Benning, Brandon Carlo, Noah Chadwick, Owen Conrad, Ben Danford, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Rylan Fellinger, Nathan Mayes, Jake McCabe, Ryan McCleary, Dakota Mermis, Philippe Myers, Rhett Parsons, John Prokop, Morgan Rielly, Marshall Rifai, Chas Sharpe, Blake Smith, Chris Tanev, Henry Thrun, William Villeneuve, Cade Webber

Goaltenders: Ken Appleby, Artur Akhtyamov, Dennis Hildeby, Vyacheslav Peksa, Anthony Stolarz, Joseph Woll

Toronto will begin its on-ice sessions on Thursday afternoon, before playing its first preseason game on Sunday against the Ottawa Senators.

It will be a compelling camp, as the first-line right wing spot is open, where Matias Maccelli is the favourite to start alongside Matthew Knies and Auston Matthews. Easton Cowan will be afforded every chance of making the opening night roster, entering his third camp with the Maple Leafs, while Luke Haymes could emerge as this year’s fastest riser in camp after an excellent Prospects Showdown performance.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-2025-training-camp-roster

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

6 extended takeaways from Day 1 of Maple Leafs training camp

TORONTO — The on-ice component of training camp is underway as the Toronto Maple Leafs took the ice at the Ford Performance Centre on Thursday, with new line combinations taking shape.

Matias Maccelli received the first look with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies during the Group 1 session, and he may be the favourite to start the year on this line. William Nylander and John Tavares were paired together in Group 2 alongside Bobby McMann, and it’s clear that Craig Berube will be experimenting throughout training camp, in a search for his optimal combinations.

“I think more than anything, we want to have a good first day. It’s a tough day,” Berube said. “It’s a lot of battling. It’s intense. Players, they could go and make it as intense as they want, but I thought it was really intense, which is what we want.”

Here are the Leafs training camp groups for Thursday’s session. Group 3 isn’t listed. pic.twitter.com/x6cEZsveFo

— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) September 18, 2025

Here’s what you need to know from the first day of Maple Leafs’ training camp:

Leafs lines through Group 1 session:

Knies-Matthews-Maccelli
Lorentz-Laughton-Robertson
Pezzetta-Kampf-Jarnkrok
Barbolini-Groulx-Tverberg
Valis

Rielly-Carlo
Thrun-Myers
Chadwick-Benning
Rifai-Danford

Will have more later but Jarnkrok has been excellent through 1st hour.

— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) September 18, 2025

It’s too early to be worried about Auston Matthews​

Auston Matthews said he’s fully confident about his health during Wednesday’s media availability, and Thursday provided a first opportunity to get a look at how the Maple Leafs’ captain is feeling. Matthews submitted a mixed performance during Thursday’s practice, with the extremely obvious caveat that it’s the first day of practice, and it’s too early to be genuinely concerned.

Matthews’ puck skills remain otherworldly and during a sequence early in practice, he dangled Noah Chadwick rather easily to get to the net. In another sequence, Matthews beat Philippe Myers to the puck in the corner and fished it out for Matthew Knies in front of the net. He used his frame throughout the session to shield off defenders, win back pucks and instruct his teammates on where he wanted them to go in the offensive zone.

And again, with the caveat that it’s way too early to be concerned: Matthews didn’t have the usual velocity on his shot throughout the majority of the session and Morgan Rielly won the majority of 1-on-1 battles against him. Matthews skates and fought through contact with his usual force, but we’ll be keeping our eyes and ears out to see if he gains the same velocity he had during his 69-goal campaign in 2023-24. There’s also a clear example of Matthews ripping the puck with his usual force early in the session, so it may just be a matter of Toronto’s captain rounding into form during the preseason.

Berube didn’t seem remotely concerned and raved about Matthews’ leadership after Group 1 finished their session.

“I thought he grew quickly as a leader. You guys don’t see it, the in-game things, in the room where he’s commanding,” Berube said of Matthews. “He’s not the only guy. We have a lot of strong leaders who don’t have to wear an A or a C.”

WE’RE BACK!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/TuA6stJxgb

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 18, 2025

Auston Matthews leads the Group 1 stretch at end of practice. pic.twitter.com/I7AvbdAGQU

— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) September 18, 2025

Matias Maccelli gets first look on Toronto’s first line, but this could change when Max Domi returns​

Matias Maccelli was eager to prove himself on Toronto’s first line throughout practice and for now he’s getting the first look, although this could change when Max Domi returns from a lower-body injury.

“ Just doing my best with the puck, without the puck, working hard,” Maccelli said, about what he’s focusing on when playing with Knies and Matthews. “ With the puck, trying to make plays, trying to play the same way they do.  As we get going with the games, they’ll tell me what they expect and what they want, and then I’ll do the same thing.”

Berube addressed reporters and he admitted that he initially planned to place Domi on the first line with Knies and Matthews.

“Max went down. He was obviously a guy that I was going to put there. But Max should be back pretty quick, and then we’ll go from there,” Berube said. “I mean, it’s one day. (Maccelli is) in the process of just kind of feeling things out. And you get thrown on the line with Matthews and Knies, I mean, it’s a big step. He’s a guy that can make plays, we know that.

“So that’s going to be a big part of it all if he’s making the right plays and the right decisions with the puck. Is he getting Matthews the puck enough for some opportunities and things like that? And then it’s just about him playing 200 feet, too. That line’s going to play against good lines, so he needs to be solid defensively, too.”

Maccelli said he’s equally comfortable playing on either wing, but it may be a work in progress. He seemed to be a half-step behind Knies and Matthews in rushes, and when Domi is healthy again, it appears that Berube wants to try this combination out for opening night against the Montreal Canadiens. During camp, Maccelli will get a first look with Matthews and Knies, and it will be a combination that Berube will surely test out throughout camp, but the 24-year-old winger will need to earn his head coach’s trust before he’s affixed to Toronto’s top line.

“It’s always weird to come to a new team when you don’t know anyone,” Maccelli said. “ I’ve only been in one spot and knew all the people there, so it’s different.  But everybody’s been super welcoming and nice. So it’s been an easy adjustment.”

Calle Jarnkrok stood out during Group 1 practice session, may be back to 2023-24 form​

Calle Jarnkrok was in excellent form during the first practice session and while we’re not pencilling him into the opening night lineup just yet, it’s an encouraging sign from the 34-year-old. Jarnkrok was paired alongside David Kampf and Michael Pezzetta and was the clear standout on the line, ripping his slot with the velocity we’re used to seeing. He roofed the puck past Dennis Hildeby twice off rush drills and wasn’t hesitant to win back pucks in battle drills.

The veteran forward underwent groin and sports hernia surgery after suffering an injury during last year’s training camp and only returned to the lineup in March, where he registered a goal and seven points in 19 games, before adding one assist in 12 playoff games, primarily operating in a fourth-line role. Jarnkrok could very well be watching from the press box on opening night, but Thursday was a great start towards cementing his spot to begin the year.

Anthony Stolarz wants to get deal done before the season​

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz wants to be with the team for the foreseeable future and there’s a sense of urgency regarding his next contract. Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving hinted Wednesday that a new extension could be imminent, and Stolarz wants to get the deal done before the year begins.

“Our ultimate goal is to win the Stanley Cup, so once the season starts, that’s all I want to focus on,” Stolarz said. “I’ll let my agent and Treliving talk that out and hopefully we can get something done here soon.”

Before the Leafs practice session begins, Anthony Stolarz and Dennis Hildeby are getting some work in with Jake Muzzin and other staff members. pic.twitter.com/h4wzcOQEZn

— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) September 18, 2025

Stolarz recently appeared on Leafs Morning Take with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill, where he outlined what he wants from his next contact, and how he’s fully recovered from a season-ending concussion.

Easton Cowan improves throughout practice, builds partnership with Dakota Joshua, Nicolas Roy​

Easton Cowan will be afforded every chance to make the roster and he improved as Thursday’s afternoon practice session went on. Cowan was paired with Dakota Joshua in 2-on-2 drills, where Joshua emerged as one of the best players overall through both practices. During controlled 3-on-2 rushes, Cowan was on the right wing, Joshua was on the left wing, with Nicolas Roy playing through centre, and it was a compelling trio that won puck battles and communicated well. It’s the first day of camp and nothing is finalized, but Cowan could find himself with a real chance of unseating the incumbents with a stellar camp.

During battle drills, Cowan worked relentlessly, especially during a session against former London Knights teammate Landon Sim. It will be curious to see where Cowan slots into the lineup, when Max Domi returns to the lineup, but he’s firmly in the mix for a top-nine role and like Joshua, was among the best players from the opening day of camp.

forward lines are beginning to take shape in Group 2, with Bobby McMann alongside John Tavares and William Nylander. Nicolas Roy centring Dakota Joshua and Easton Cowan.

— Arun Srinivasan (@Arunthings) September 18, 2025

Simmer and Cow BATTLING pic.twitter.com/fCVviZ3HHm

— London Knights (@LondonKnights) September 18, 2025

This line may get some extended looks together during Sunday’s preseason opener against the Ottawa Senators, and all three players are eager to make a strong first impression. Chris Tanev was among the several Leafs who complimented Roy’s ‘extremely underrated’ game, as he moves very well for a player his size, getting to the high-danger areas with relative ease. Joshua was dominant against several younger camp invitees, using his speed, size and hockey intelligence to great effect throughout the day. We can’t wait to see this line in action.

John Tavares and William Nylander were the best players Thursday, Bobby McMann joins the line​

John Tavares and William Nylander were the best overall players from Thursday’s practice sessions, with Chris Tanev and Morgan Rielly earning honourable mentions. These designations are built from what we observed in controlled drills, so it’s worth putting into perspective, but Tavares and Nylander were making high-end plays with ease, and Bobby McMann joined the group, with Berube watching closely.

“I think Bobby can take another step in his game,” Berube said. “You know, doing some things a little bit differently. Especially playing with those two guys [Tavares and Nylander], getting those guys the puck more, getting to the net more. I like a big guy with those two guys, to forecheck, get in there and create loose pucks, help out JT in those situations. Willy’s gonna do his thing, we all know that. But Bobby, I feel, can take another step in his game.”

McMann-Tavares-Nylander played 158:09 at 5-on-5 with a plus-six goal differential and a 60.4 percent share of the expected goals last season via Natural Stat Trick. There is some proof of concept that this line could work, but McMann simply cannot go 24 games without a goal like he did to conclude the 2024-25 season.

“He was basically just saying we want a certain identity. We want to play hard. Don’t take any shifts off,  don’t take any seconds off, pushing each other all the way through,” McMann said. “It started from the first drill. You’re chasing the guy down all the way through. You’re playing one-on-ones, two-on-twos. It’s just not giving up an inch.”

McMann’s elite straight-line speed and ability to get to the high-danger areas certainly compliment Tavares and Nylander’s skill sets, but there will be some experimentation on the top line, and the challenge has been set for the 28-year-old with several players vying for a chance in the Maple Leafs’ reshuffled top-six.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/6-extended-takeaways-day-1-toronto-maple-leafs-training-camp

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Dakota Joshua could quickly become Maple Leafs’ Swiss Army knife

The Toronto Maple Leafs are going to need all hands on deck this season if they want to make some noise in the regular season, and more importantly, during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The makeup of their roster has changed heading into the new year, and one player to keep an eye on, when it comes to doing a little bit of everything to help the Leafs’ win, is newcomer Dakota Joshua.

Originally drafted by the Maple Leafs in the fifth round back in 2014, Joshua has spent the past three seasons with the Vancouver Canucks, showing off a combination of speed, skill, and strength, while displaying a knack for the net. Joshua is coming off a down year, with just seven goals in 57 games, however, he’s just two years removed from potting 18 goals in 63 games. He saw his role diminish with the Canucks, and while he was kind of shocked the trade went down, Joshua recently admitted he was thrilled when he was told he’s heading to Toronto. And, so he should be.

Joshua has a chance to make a significant impact on his new team, and while there’s a little bit of familiarity with Craig Berube from their days together in St. Louis, expect to see the 6-foot-3 power forward come out flying at training camp, and into his first season with his new team. Thanks to his size, soft hands around the net, willingness to hit everything that moves, and impressive work ethic, don’t be surprised to see Joshua stick within the middle-six of the Maple Leafs lineup, and give Berube a weapon to use at left wing among his third, and potentially second lines. A lot like Max Pacioretty last season, just 10 years younger.

Joshua will have a legit shot at playing with John Tavares and William Nylander this season, and could bring an element of what Matthew Knies’ brings to the Leafs’ top line. He’s a big body who loves to crash the net, isn’t afraid to challenge the dirty areas of the ice, and his confident toughness is going to go a long way when it comes to changing exactly how this team plays. It’s a new era in Toronto, and Joshua, who has three years left on his contract at $3.25 million AAV, should be thinking long term. The fact that he’s familiar with the head coach, knows what it’s like to play in a Canadian market, and is motivated to have a bounce-back season, the stars could align this year for him in Toronto. With him being signed through the 2028-29 season, there’s zero doubt Brad Treliving is hoping he carves himself a role immediately, and hunkers down as someone Berube can trust for this season, and moving forward. An ‘x-factor’ could be an understatement.

With Max Domi potentially starting the season on the injured reserve, it could give Joshua a chance for some second power-play time to start the year. The Maple Leafs could also give the 29-year-old a shot as a depth penalty killer, as he’s shown in the past with the Canucks he’s more than capable of playing a depth role in all situations. However, what Leafs Nation will notice from the opening puck drop is that Joshua doesn’t take any prisoners. He loves to lay the body and is a ‘loud’ forechecker who zones in on ensuring defencemen know he’s in the area. His north/south game, toughness and tenacity are going to go a long way for winning Berube’s trust. With Nylander, Tavares also being under contract for the foreseeable future, his end goal should be to become their third wheel. Berube loves to coach in pairs, and those two Leafs’ vets should be considered attached at the hip, now it’s on Joshua to push his way in.

It’s an exciting season for Joshua, who is going to be giving a ton of opportunity, considering there’s a lot of unknown with this roster, and how exactly the Leafs will be structured this season. With a slew of new forwards up front, his familiarity with Berube certainly helps, but it’s going to be on Joshua to showcase his everything within his toolbox, and show off to the entire coaching staff that he can be as versatile as a Swiss-army knife from game one.

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/dakota-joshua-could-quickly-become-maple-leafs-swiss-army-knife

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Auston Matthews impressed with Easton Cowan at camp, says he looks bigger and stronger

The Toronto Maple Leafs‘ second training camp under Craig Berube is well underway, and Easton Cowan is looking to shoot for the stars at this season’s training camp.

He’s caught the attention of Auston Matthews, who is in his second season as Maple Leafs captain and looking to rebound after pushing through much of the 2024-25 season with an injury. While Matthews has the safest spot of anybody in the opening night lineup, the future is much less certain for Cowan. After carving out two solid training camps and being sent back to junior both times, the Maple Leafs’ top prospect is looking to crack the roster out of training camp, and if he can, a spot in the opening night lineup.

Matthews says that he’s seeing the same energy out of Cowan that everyone’s used to, but that he’s more of an imposing figure now.

“He looks bigger, he looks stronger,” Matthews told reporters following his group’s skate on Friday. “He’s always had confidence in his ability and who he is, to me it just looks like an evolved version of him. It’s been good to see.”

Cowan probably has the skill to play in the NHL right now, but considering the amount of forwards who are battling for roster spots, it’s going to take much more than skill to beat others out for a spot on the final roster. Matthews has taken note of the early intensity at training camp.

“It’s always good to kind of get the summer hockey habits out right away, just kind of get to competing,” Matthews continued. “Feel the bodies, feel the contact, feel the pressure, all that stuff….last year was a very competitive camp, this year’s been no different, it’s good to have that competition and just get right back into it, not be kinda one foot in one foot out.”

As for Matthews himself, head coach Craig Berube said he’s noticed that Matthews’ intensity is up compared to where he was last season.

“I see him, he’s more engaged. I think he’s feeling good,” Berube said. “He’s harder, heavier on pucks. You can see a little bit of difference out there.”

Matthews and the Maple Leafs will practice again on Saturday before visiting the Ottawa Senators for their first preseason game on Sunday afternoon.

PRESENTED BY 6IX INNING STRETCH PODCAST​

Love baseball? Don’t miss The 6ix Inning Stretch — the brand new podcast from The Nation Network, presented by Betway. Hosted by Toronto sports reporter Lindsay Dunn and 3-time MLB All-Star Whit Merrifield, this weekly show delivers insider stories, unfiltered Jays talk, player interviews, and expert analysis from around the majors. New episodes drop every Wednesday — listen on your favourite podcast platform or watch on the Bluejaysnation YouTube channel.

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/auston-matthews-impressed-easton-cowan-camp-bigger-stronger

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Calle Jarnkrok eager to move past injury riddled campaign and contribute

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Calle Jarnkrok is ready to turn the page on an injury-plagued 2024-25 season and return to form.

He missed the majority of the regular season due to a sports hernia injury he suffered in training camp, and then he had a setback from a groin injury. Jarnkrok was able to return to the lineup around the trade deadline, but could only muster up seven points (one goal and six assists) in 19 games.

Speaking with reporters after practice on Friday, he said it felt good to be on the ice not feeling any pain, which was a far cry from what he dealt with the prior year.

“It was no fun,” he said. “Not being out there, just trying to get back, and you can’t. Try again, you can’t. And then had to get the surgery done. It took a while to feel good again, but now I’m feeling great.”

While being able to work his way back into the lineup and gaining the trust of head coach Craig Berube to get some defensive shifts in the playoffs alongside Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz, Jarnkrok did not fully enjoy himself on the ice. He admitted that he never felt 100% at any point while playing, with the struggle of playing catch-up so late in the season not doing him any favours.

The injury troubles now seem to be behind him, as Jarnkrok said he felt rejuvenated after his offseason training.

“It’s all the rest that takes some time, but I had a great summer,” he said. “A lot of skating, a lot of workouts. It was just a good summer.”

Getting his body back to a position where he feels good is always a good thing, especially knowing he is capable of chipping in around 30+ points when he is healthy. But he enters this camp with plenty of competition for roster spots, and Jarnkrok said he welcomes the challenge.

While his long-term future with the team remains unclear because of how crowded the forward group is, the Leafs will be giving him every opportunity to land a spot in their bottom-six. If nothing else, everyone beyond the scenes surely is pleased to see Jarnkrok back in the mix.

“I think so, for sure,” Berube said when asked if he has noticed a pep in Jarnkrok’s step so far at camp. “He missed most of the year, came back, and was still being bothered by the injury. Never really felt that good throughout the playoffs, either. He has had a full summer of training, he feels really good, and it’s noticeable. He looks really good to me, got a lot of jump in his step. We all know that Calle is a good player, but it’s about feeling good too and he feels good.”

PRESENTED BY 6IX INNING STRETCH PODCAST​

Love baseball? Don’t miss The 6ix Inning Stretch — the brand new podcast from The Nation Network, presented by Betway. Hosted by Toronto sports reporter Lindsay Dunn and 3-time MLB All-Star Whit Merrifield, this weekly show delivers insider stories, unfiltered Jays talk, player interviews, and expert analysis from around the majors. New episodes drop every Wednesday — listen on your favourite podcast platform or watch on the Bluejaysnation YouTube channel.

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/calle-jarnkrok-eager-move-past-injury-riddled-campaign-contribute

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Maple Leafs reduce 2025 training camp roster by 6 players

Ahead of Sunday’s preseason opener, the Toronto Maple Leafs are returning six players to their major junior teams, reducing the training camp roster to 67 players.

Rylan Fellinger, Nathan Mayes, Tyler Hopkins, Harry Nansi, Matthew Hlacar and Sam McCue will be all heading back to their respective Canadian Hockey League teams, the Maple Leafs announced Saturday afternoon. Fellinger, Hopkins, Nansi and Hlacar are all members of the Maple Leafs’ 2025 draft class, while McCue and Mayes were selected in the seventh round in the 2024 NHL Draft. Ben Danford and Miroslav Holinka are among the notable selections from the 2024 class that remain among the training camp roster.

“Now, again, some of these kids are going to have to find their role or their niche in the game and do what they have to do,” Maple Leafs director of amateur scouting Mark Leach said following the 2025 NHL Draft. “When you find those kids with that work ethic, that compete, they know who they are, and they what type of game they have to play, they work on those elements, they’ll find a role. There’s a role for everybody. As you saw in the playoffs: size matters, toughness matters, competitiveness matters. We hope we fill some of those roles in some of those kids.”

Hopkins was particularly impressive for the Maple Leafs during the 2025 Prospect Showdown, registering an assist against the Montreal Canadiens in a 4-1 victory on September 14. The defensive-minded centre was selected 86th overall, after recording 20 goals and 51 points in 67 games with Kingston last season. Mayes also stood out during a September 13 practice session leading into the Prospect Showcase, and the 6-foot-7 defenceman is expected to take a major leap this year with Spokane.

The @MapleLeafs have returned the following players to their respective junior teams.

D Rylan Fellinger (Flint)
D Nathan Mayes (Spokane)
F Tyler Hopkins (Kingston)
F Harry Nansi (Owen Sound)
F Matthew Hlacar (Kitchener)
F Sam McCue (Brantford)

— Leafs PR (@LeafsPR) September 20, 2025

Toronto will open its preseason schedule on the road, facing off against the Ottawa Senators on Sunday, before hosting the Senators on Tuesday.

PRESENTED BY 6IX INNING STRETCH PODCAST​

Love baseball? Don’t miss The 6ix Inning Stretch — the brand new podcast from The Nation Network, presented by Betway. Hosted by Toronto sports reporter Lindsay Dunn and 3-time MLB All-Star Whit Merrifield, this weekly show delivers insider stories, unfiltered Jays talk, player interviews, and expert analysis from around the majors. New episodes drop every Wednesday — listen on your favourite podcast platform or watch on the Bluejaysnation YouTube channel.

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-reduce-2025-training-camp-roster-6-players

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Easton Cowan, Ben Danford headline Maple Leafs’ roster for preseason opener vs. Senators

Easton Cowan and Ben Danford will be leading the Toronto Maple Leafs into battle against the Ottawa Senators for their preseason opener Sunday.

Toronto released its roster for Sunday’s game, where the vast majority of veteran players are getting the afternoon off. Cowan will be afforded every chance to make the team this fall, and was placed on a line alongside Dakota Joshua and Logan Shaw during Saturday’s scrimmage, with Shaw effectively filling for the injured Nicolas Roy.

Danford was paired alongside Marshall Rifai during Saturday’s scrimmage and it’s likely the pair will remain intact for Sunday’s game. The 19-year-old was impressive during Friday’s line rushes and is the most promising defensive prospect within Toronto’s system.

Although most of the roster regulars are out of the lineup Sunday, there are still several storylines to keep an eye on. Nick Robertson is looking to cement his spot on the roster after signing a one-year deal with the Maple Leafs, and recorded both goals in Saturday’s scrimmage. Robertson will be pushed by Cowan among others for a spot on Toronto’s third line, but the veteran was lauded by head coach Craig Berube during Wednesday’s press conference for his scoring ability. Calle Jarnkrok also looked like he was back in his 2023-24 form during practice sessions after missing the majority of last year recovering from groin and sports hernia surgery.

Among the defence corps, there are fewer battles to settle, but with Simon Benoit out of the lineup due to injury, Philippe Myers will look to hold onto his spot in the lineup as the team’s No. 7 defenceman, while his partner, Henry Thrun, is also pushing for a roster spot.

Toronto cut its training camp roster by six players Saturday afternoon and Sunday’s game could go a long way in helping Craig Berube and Brad Treliving determine who will stick around for the second week of camp.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/eas...leafs-roster-preseason-opener-ottawa-senators

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Maple Leafs fend off Senators’ comeback attempt in 4-3 preseason opener win

Matthew Barbolini notched the game-winner, while Artur Akhtyamov and Vyacheslav Peksa shut the door as the Toronto Maple Leafs held on for a 4-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators in their preseason opener.

Calle Jarnkrok opened the scoring in the first minute of the contest, Nick Robertson added an insurance goal, then William Villeneuve scored on a wrist shot from the point, as the Maple Leafs took a 3-0 lead into the first intermission.

Akhtyamov was outstanding for the Maple Leafs, making 16 saves on 17 shots, before Peksa took over, closing out the victory with 17 saves on 18 shots.

Ottawa fought back with goals from Ridly Greig, Arthur Kaliyev, and Olle Lycksell, but it wasn’t enough, as Toronto closed out the win.

Successful field trip pic.twitter.com/INLon1qCNS

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) September 21, 2025

It was a spirited affair, as the Maple Leafs should be thrilled with the victory, fielding a roster that primarily consisted of camp invites and players who will start the year with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, against a full Senators side with Jake Sanderson as the lone notable scratch.

Toronto’s top prospects Easton Cowan and Ben Danford were both held without a point, but were impressing during the victory, showing signs of opportunism and strong decision-making throughout the contest. Cowan will be fighting for a place in the opening night lineup, and was paired with Dakota Joshua in practices throughout the week.

It may be the preseason, but it was another heated instalment of the Battle of Ontario. Maple Leafs defenceman Marshall Rifai squared off against Senators winger Zack MacEwen in the second period, after landing an open-ice hit on Ridly Greig.

Toronto resumes its preseason schedule against Ottawa on Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena. It is expected that the Maple Leafs will have more NHL regulars in the lineup, giving head coach Craig Berube some further opportunities to test out potential combinations ahead of the regular season opener against the Montreal Canadiens.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/tor...enators-comeback-attempt-preseason-opener-win

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Slotting Max Domi on the third line is the right call: Leafs Morning Take

Whether it’s preseason, regular season, or playoffs, it always feels good with the Toronto Maple Leafs beat the rival Ottawa Senators. Better yet, it was a very Marlies heavy roster that tamed Ottawa’s NHL heavy roster on Sunday afternoon.

At any rate, it will get going for real in 16 days when the Leafs host the Canadiens in the season opener. Camp’s only a few days old, but without questions, there’s been tons of positive talk to come out of Leafs camp thus far.

After offering up a bit of a pulse check on the first few days of training camp, we spent some time discussing the life and times of legendary goalie Bernie Parent, who was passed away this weekend. Parent was a Leaf from 1970-1972, but obviously, he will be remembered for his time as a Philadelphia Flyer. He was a great goalie and an even better person. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Parent family.

As mentioned, the Marlies pulled out a 4-3 win in Ottawa to kick off the six game preseason slate. Most importantly, Nick Robertson and Calle Jarnkrok, who could both be fighting for the same roster spot, scored in the impressive victory. Naturally, we talked about the plethora of bubble players and if we see them sticking out. For the record, we both think David Kampf will end up being the odd man out. Meantime, Easton Cowan played just under 15 minutes skating predominantly with Kampf and Robertson. At this point, it would be surprising to see Cowan crack the Leafs roster out of camp. There’s nothing wrong with AHL season. With that in mind, Ben Danford made his preseason debut. Despite taking two penalties, he looked solid, which was great to see.

Unsurprisingly, Morgan Rielly will start the season as Toronto’s first power play quarterback. We debated that polarizing topic and if the Leafs currently possesses a better option for that role. Additionally, we talked some Max Domi. After missing a few days to start camp with a lower body injury, he skated with newcomers Dakota Joshua and Nicolas Roy on Sunday. Is that the best place in the current lineup for Domi? We both think it is. Only time will tell, though.

The next edition of Leafs Morning Take will come your way at 11 AM ET. Join us as we recap Tuesday night’s Leafs/Sens tilt. Plus, we’ll tackle the latest news and notes from practice this week.

You can subscribe to TheLeafsNation (TLN) YouTube channel HERE. Additionally, we’re available in podcast form, too —wherever you get your podcasts. While you’re at it, be sure to leave us a 5-star review!

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/slo...ird-line-is-the-right-call-leafs-morning-take

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Report: Maple Leafs, Stolarz actively working on cap hit for possible contract extension

The Toronto Maple Leafs had a benefit to their team last season that they didn’t have for a long time, and that is two strong goaltenders.

Anthony Stolarz, who signed a two-year contract with the team last offseason, put up stellar numbers in his first true season as a 1A goaltender, so much so that the Maple Leafs want to get him signed to an extension. Stolarz is in the same camp, voicing his desire to get a contract done before the season starts. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the two sides seem to be in agreement in terms of the length of the deal, but they’re working on finding a compromise for the annual number.

“It seems to me that this is going to be likely three or four years. I think the issue has been the number,” Friedman said on Monday’s edition of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast. “And the challenge for Toronto here is that Stolarz really has a lot of leverage. He’s indicated that he doesn’t want this to go into the season, and so, that’s a little bit of leverage his way. And the other leverage he has is he can bet on himself at a time when there’s really not a lot of other goalies available out there.”

Stolarz indeed has lots of leverage here. Joseph Woll performed very well when called upon, but Stolarz was clearly the stronger link of the unit, playing to a record of 21-8-3 with a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.14 and a save percentage (SV%) of .926. These are Vezina-calibre numbers if he plays more than 34 games last season, but it was important to balance the workload considering neither Stolarz nor Woll had ever played a full season as a go-to starting goaltender.

Despite Friedman saying that there’s been some kinks to work out between both sides, he appears optimistic that both sides will come to an agreement before the season kicks off on October 8.

“I still think they’re going back and forth,” Friedman continued. “When two sides go back and forth, as much as it appears that these two are, it says to me that there is a willingness to do a deal there.”

Stolarz is entering the second year of a two-year contract worth $5 million in total, paying him $2.5 million annually. This is a huge bargain considering what he was able to offer the Maple Leafs last season, and while both sides seem comfortable with a contract in the ballpark of 3-5 years long, finding a number that works for both sides appears to be the final piece of business in these negotiations.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/rep...ng-on-cap-hit-for-possible-contract-extension

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Brandon Carlo is looking forward to a fresh start paired with Morgan Rielly in 2025-26

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Brandon Carlo is pleased that he gets to continue building up his chemistry with Morgan Rielly at camp.

The duo is projected to be the top unit for Tuesday’s preseason clash against the Ottawa Senators, the first preseason appearance for both this year. There is plenty of pressure on the alternate captain due to the poor performance he had last season, but it is worth noting that things turned around for Rielly once Carlo arrived and the two were paired up.

“ It was nice to kind of have a little bit of foundation last year, but coming into camp with a fresh start is obviously great for everybody,” Carlo said to reporters after the morning skate. “ Mo’s been great.  He’s taken me under his wing throughout last year and then this year as well.  Just making sure I’m always in the right spots off the ice, on the ice, on time and whatnot.  So I’m grateful for him. He’s a great team leader.”

Beyond the Rielly-Carlo pairing, the rest of the backend has remained mostly unchanged from what was utilized towards the end of the previous campaign, with Henry Thrun being the only new addition. Maintaining that stability goes a long way towards keeping in tune with the system’s demands and maintaining strong chemistry with the other mainstays in the lineup.

“It feels great. Coming in this year to camp, just being here from the get-go with this defensive group just felt really good,” he said. “ I think we all mesh very well within the locker room, on the ice, and everything in between.  So I really like what we have on the back end there, and I think it’s gonna be a fun year learning from these guys, pushing each other, and just being the best unit that we can.”

With this being his first proper training camp in Toronto, Carlo has enjoyed the fine balance of what head coach Craig Berube has initiated in getting conditioning back to what’s needed for a hockey season while not being too demanding on the body. He is applying lessons he learned from his younger days with the Boston Bruins when he got mentored by the likes of Zdeno Chara and Torey Krug.

The one thing he wants to carry over to this year’s Leafs team is to be loud and communicative both on and off the ice.

“I think just drawing off of my experience that I had last year, I like to try and be vocal,” he said. “If they have a question, try and go through with them because I’m gonna have questions as well along the way.  As a collective group, we’re all here to communicate.  I appreciated that from the guys that were here last year helping me, and I want to try to get the same.”

As far as passing down advice to the younger players at camp in Ben Danford, Noah Chadwick, and William Villeneuve among others, he stressed the importance of not overthinking things during the preseason. While there is bound to be some rust to shake off after resting in the summer, focusing on the opportunity of preparing for the grind of another season goes a long way.

It naturally led to him recalling the memories of what it was like during his first preseason game, which Carlo remembered fondly.

“ I think we were in Providence and I think I was just a little bit overwhelmed the first couple of shifts,” he said. “ First taste of the NHL, it’s an exciting moment for you and your family just going through that day. It’s one of those big games that I guess you could say that you feel a little bit more amped up for, but  I just enjoyed the experience of being around those NHL guys and tried to take it all in.”

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/bra...ward-fresh-start-paired-morgan-rielly-2025-26

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Maple Leafs fall 3-2 to Senators in overtime, B-teams prevail in preseason split

In a result that should have Toronto Maple Leafs fans bring out the pitchforks and demand changes across the board, the Leafs fell 3-2 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators in their second preseason game. To make matters even worse, they had a 2-0 lead and let it slip away. And even worse than that, the Maple Leafs were icing most of their regular players while the Senators had a B-squad playing for them. Gasp!

(If you didn’t pick up on the sarcasm, now you know).

The Leafs started strong against the Senators, with Auston Matthews finding the back of the net with assists going to Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Matias Maccelli.

Auston Matthews is already scoring goals pic.twitter.com/Q5NfeYODRV

— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) September 23, 2025

Bobby McMann scored a power play goal later on off a feed from Easton Cowan, with Maccelli picking up the secondary assist. Maccelli was a standout for the Maple Leafs in this game, with his two assists making for a great first audition for a spot on Matthews’ wing.

Bobby McMann scores on the power play pic.twitter.com/mC5Fuwpo2Y

— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) September 23, 2025

The Senators kept the Maple Leafs off the board in the second period, and pressed them even harder in the third. Fabian Zetterlund broke the seal a little over seven minutes into the third, finding the back of the net on a shorthanded goal. And after a cross-checking penalty by Scott Laughton, the Sens pulled the goalie and Shane Pinto scored with just over two minutes remaining.

On the first rush of the overtime period, Pinto ended the game.

Shane Pinto ends it in overtime pic.twitter.com/INNcfxzlYk

— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) September 24, 2025

The B-squads defeating the A-squads is the least surprising thing about preseason, but there will always be a couple of people who take things a little too seriously. One team had a team full of players looking to prove themselves, and in some cases, audition for a chance to suit up for the league tonight. The other team had a roster compiled mostly of players who have their jobs locked up for the regular season. One team had that extra juice, and one team was saving it for games that matters. You can say the exact same thing about the Maple Marlies defeating the Senators’ A-squad on Sunday.

The Maple Leafs will continue their preseason on Thursday when they visit the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-fall-3-2-senators-overtime-b-teams-prevail

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

With Woll out, Dennis Hildeby needs to seize the opportunity: Leafs Morning Take

Tuesday was an eventful day for the Maple Leafs.

Off the ice, it was announced that Joseph Woll would be taking a leave of absence to tend to a personal matter. Then, on the ice, the Leafs tangled with the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Arena.

Simply put, the season opener can’t come soon enough. We kicked off the show by giving our quick thoughts on the current preseason format. After that, you just knew we had to discuss the Season 2 trailer for Amazon Prime’s Faceoff: Insider the NHL docu-series. There was a specific Mitch Marner clip that got our attention. Start hitting people! Furthermore, we also spent way too much time talking about Auston Matthews’ making a smiley face during warmups on Tuesday night with pucks to pay homage to his former teammate who now calls Vegas home.

Brought to you by Simply Spiked, we broke the 3-2 OT loss to the Sens. Shane Pinto scored the OT winner. The most newsworthy things to come out of the game: Dennis Hildeby was solid, Auston Matthews scored, and both Easton Cowan and Ben Danford impressed once again. The result didn’t matter. Meantime, it was cool to see Matias Maccelli and Dakota Joshua play their first games. Maccelli tallied two apples, and Joshua was throwing his body around all night.

Suffice it is to say, this could prove to be a big moment in Hildeby’s career. While the details are scarce on Woll, the way people are talking, it doesn’t sound like he will be back anytime soon. Enter Hildeby, who’s fresh off signing a three-year contract extension. In the absence of Woll, the Leafs need the 24-year-old Swede to seize the moment and rise to the occasion. Plain and simple.

To talk more about that, among other things, The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta dropped by the show. In addition to the Woll/Hildeby conversation, we also got the latest on the Anthony Stolarz contract talks. In short, Pagnotta didn’t have much new to report. That said, he does think there’s a good chance that Stolarz signs an extension by October 8th. Additionally, the debated some looming roster decisions. Does Cowan make the team? Do the Leafs trade some guys out? We covered a bunch of different pertinent topics.

The next edition of Leafs Morning Take will come your way on Friday morning at 11 AM ET. Join us as we recap Thursday night’s tilt with Montreal. Plus, we’ll dissect the latest news and notes as well as look ahead to Toronto’s weekend.

You can subscribe to TheLeafsNation (TLN) YouTube channel HERE. Additionally, we’re available in podcast form, too —wherever you get your podcasts. While you’re at it, be sure to leave us a 5-star review!

Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/wit...s-to-seize-the-opportunity-leafs-morning-take

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Craig Berube encouraged by play of Easton Cowan, Dennis Hildeby in preseason loss to Senators

The Toronto Maple Leafs fell 3-2 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night, but head coach Craig Berube was impressed with the players who were fighting for spots.

The Leafs had most of their A-team suited up, with the exception of a few younger players who are pushing for a spot on the roster. One of those players is top prospect Easton Cowan, who left a good impression on Berube for the second game in a row.

“He’s doing those things, simplified, simple hockey,” Berube told reporters following the overtime loss. “Using his speed. Obviously he has abilities out there, with making plays and things like that, which he showed me tonight. But they were the right plays at the right time, which is important.”

Making plays at the right time is in fact important, and it shows that Berube has confidence in Cowan to be using him in these situations. As a rookie, overthinking things is something that will hurt you, and Berube was happy with his ability to keep his game straightforward.

“I thought that he played direct all game. He worked and hounded, back-checked, did a lot of good things.”

Although he’s firmly etched as the Maple Leafs’ third-string goaltender behind the tandem of Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll, Dennis Hildeby had a strong performance that stuck out to his NHL head coach, too.

“He was good, I thought he tracked the puck well, made the saves,” Berube said. “But down in tight around the net there were a lot of scramble plays, and he was pretty solid covering the net.”

Hildeby was strong on Tuesday night, stopping all 23 shots he faced before fellow prospect Artur Akhtyamov came into the game to relieve him. Cowan picked up an assist on the Bobby McMann goal, giving him a leg up on the competition and keeping Berube’s attention on him a little bit longer. These two players have earned the praise they got from their head coach, but there’s still more to prove.

The Maple Leafs will continue preseason on Thursday night when they visit the Montreal Canadiens.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/cra...-cowan-dennis-hildeby-preseason-loss-senators

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Max Domi eager to contribute wherever he is needed in Maple Leafs lineup

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Max Domi is willing to make an impact regardless of where he is slotted in the lineup.

Domi had missed the first bit of training camp due to suffering a lower-body injury, but was able to get his first reps on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies during the non-game group practice. Barring any setbacks, there is a decent chance he will be able to make his preseason debut on the top line on Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens.

Whether he indeed ends up on the top line or not, Domi is eager to contribute wherever he gets put in the lineup.

“There’s open spots everywhere. Doesn’t matter where you play, you’ve got to go out and do your best,” he said to reporters after practice. “So whatever I’m asked to do, I’ll be ready to play in that position.”

Head coach Craig Berube had envisioned Domi being the person to fill the void left behind by Mitch Marner to begin the season, but the aforementioned ailment resulted in Matias Maccelli getting a chance in Tuesday’s preseason tilt against the Ottawa Senators. Maccelli made the most of his chance by recording two assists, one of which was off a goal from Matthews.

For Domi to secure that spot without any doubts, Berube wants to see the forward use his shot and stay disciplined.

“There’s some things, like the penalties, he’s got to be more disciplined in situations. He likes to look after his teammates, and probably goes overboard at times. But it’s for a good reason. But I get it, penalties,” Berube said. “And I’ve always talked to Max about using his shot more. In my opinion, he can score more goals if he looked to shoot a bit more. I thought he made a conscious effort last year towards the end of the year and into the playoffs, where he was shooting the puck more. And I think if he’s a little more direct that way — shooting the puck more, getting to the inside, and using his shot, he’s got a good shot — I think that is a good season for him.”

When Domi was asked about whether he believes he needs to start shooting pucks more, he said he wanted to keep the conversation between himself and his coach. He did, however, highlight that Berube wants what’s best for each player to make them feel part of the solution and acknowledged that he will try and shoot more.

Whether he gets into a preseason game on Saturday or down the line, Domi is itching to get his third season as a Leaf rolling.

“You still get the same nerves for training camp. You still get the same little jitters and anxiety that come with it, but you’re still a kid, man,” he said. “You still feel like you’re a kid growing up, and as I’ve always said, from the time I signed here, it’s been my childhood dream to play here, so you just empty the tank every single day and whatever it takes to help the team win.”

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/max...rever-he-is-needed-toronto-maple-leafs-lineup

 

[Toronto Maple Leafs]

Scott Laughton tallies 4 points in Maple Leafs’ 7-2 preseason rout over Canadiens

The Toronto Maple Leafs won their third game of the preseason, and it would appear they might have a new line building some chemistry.

The line of Scott Laughton, Steven Lorentz, and Easton Cowan finished the night with a combined eight points. Four of them came from Laughton, who scored a pair of nice goals and added a pair of assists. Both of those assists came on goals from his linemate, Steven Lorentz, who picked up an assist of his own. Cowan completed the job on the stat sheet with an assist on a goal from defenceman Matt Benning.

You have to make the obligatory ‘it’s preseason’ disclaimer when evaluating anybody’s performance in the exhibition games, but Laughton looked a lot more like the type of player the Leafs thought they were acquiring at the 2025 trade deadline in Thursday night’s victory. He was tenacious on the forecheck, solid on the penalty kill, and played with the type of confidence that allows him to drive the net and play the style of game that makes him most effective.

It was Cowan’s third appearance in three preseason games, which speaks volumes about how he’s viewed by head coach Craig Berube. The fact that he’s getting a look with two players who were a staple together in the playoffs for the Leafs last season bodes well for his odds of cracking the team out of training camp and at least starting the season in the NHL. If he makes it, it will be an entirely new test for him to be lining up against full-strength NHL teams, but he made a good case for it against the Canadiens in this game.

Also deserving of some props is Matias Maccelli, who picked up another two assists to give him four in two preseason games played so far. He was one of the best players for the Leafs tonight and continued to preach his case for a spot on the top line with Auston Matthews.

The Maple Leafs will host the Canadiens on Saturday night and look to sweep the preseason series.

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Source: https://theleafsnation.com/news/scott-laughton-tallies-4-points-toronto-maple-leafs-rout-canadiens