As the second half of the season is well into its progression, the Toronto Maple Leafs played a home and home, not to mention in back-to-back days where I observed their gameplay.
As a team, they are a complete unit to play against with all the tools to win, including the forechecking and great defensive chemistry.
The forecheck is one of the strongest assets for the Leafs’ offense. The team is primed to play in all aspects of the game, with the defense creating opportunities to maximize the effectiveness of the potent chemistry I mentioned earlier.
Also, coming off a spirited performance from goaltender Joseph Woll, who struggled in his first game, the Maple Leafs hope he is getting together his wits between the pipes at the NHL level.
Looking ahead for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
In the next three weeks, the fans should be in for a treat to see how aggressively the Toronto Maple Leafs team can play and demonstrate its ability to manage injuries and nagging questions, like “Will a trade be made?” and “Who’s on the chopping block?” at the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline.
From what has been observed in the past two games, the lineup can produce, but also, somewhat falter at times in the defensive end with careless turnovers, goalie rebounds, and not enough aggression toward the opposing team’s forwards.
We may see certain changes to the lineup against the Chicago Blackhawks this upcoming Wednesday, February 15, 2023.
What changes may occur for the Toronto Maple Leafs?
I believe keeping forward Michael Bunting and forward Mitch Marner together may help with the transition for the Leafs’ coach, Sheldon Keefe, and reuniting Captain John Tavares with William Nylander, who has finessed his game more and more, will keep the on-ice production consistent.
The fourth line I would keep intact and hope the third will be able to deliver at the fine pace of opportunities they are creating in the offensive zone, given that both units continue to play well.
This team will be tested heavily and with that could come character losses that should not by any means bring the Toronto Maple Leafs team morale down. Those tough games should help in the playoffs when battling in a tight contest and in a need of a win.