The Toronto Maple Leafs approach this 25-26 season as one of the strongest teams on paper and they will be judged heavily for their performance this year.
The Leafs cannot afford to fail this year, so with a lineup that may appear like it doesn’t need any major changes GM Brad Treliving knows upgrades are always on the table.
The question is where in the lineup would the Leafs look to potentially make those upgrades down the line. Nestor Quixtan of Heavy Sports has circled 3 areas of possible targeted improvement for the Maple Leafs to consider in the future this season.
Where could Toronto seek upgrades?
Goaltending depth
Despite having one of the strongest goalie tandems in the league with the Stolarz-Woll connection, having another solid option in the fold is never a bad thing especially down the stretch. The Leafs saw Stolarz go down with an injury in their heated playoff series against the Florida Panthers last season. Woll himself has dealt with injuries as well. Goaltending is a vulnerable position, so Toronto going out and acquiring a viable 3rd stringer would make sense.
Defensive depth
The Leafs have a solid top 4 D core that likely does not need any changes. However, they could use another 6th or 7th defenseman in the wings. Simon Benoit and Henry Thrun are currently positioned in those roles, 1 injury suddenly makes the Leafs defense look considerably weaker. If Toronto wants to see progression in the postseason, defensive depth on every D pair is critical. Another solid top 6 defenseman could be an important acquisition for the squad.
Top 6 forward
This is the one area that would not be just a depth upgrade to the lineup. With the loss of Mitch Marner on offense, the Leafs have holes to fill in the top 6. They have made forward additions in the offseason, but none are guaranteed to be top 6 pieces. Perhaps someone will step up and the issue works itself out, but if not Toronto may have to get creative during the season finding help towards the top of the lineup.
