On this version of Toronto Maple Leafs Information & Rumors, I’ll study a couple of key matters surrounding the group as coaching camp approaches. First, I’ll discover the comparatively quiet scenario relating to defenseman Jani Hakanpaa and his position if he joins the group. Subsequent, I’ll shift focus to Mitch Marner, who’s reportedly gearing up for a vital season, along with his offseason coaching catching the eye of outstanding hockey insider Elliotte Friedman.
Lastly, I’ll study the Maple Leafs’ goaltending scenario and evaluate it to the profitable tandem method utilized by the Boston Bruins, taking a look at how Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll may present the defensive spine Toronto wants in web this season.
Merchandise One: Hakanpaa Saga Overblown: A Minor Experiment for Leafs’ Depth
Right now, Maple Leafs author Adam Proteau put a attainable Jani Hakanpaa signing into perspective. The continuing discussions in regards to the Maple Leafs probably signing veteran defenseman Hakanpaa have been blown out of proportion. Whereas intriguing, Hakanpaa’s addition would probably have a minimal influence on the group’s long-term plans in the course of the common season.
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At finest, Hakanpaa would function a depth defenseman, slotting into the third pairing and averaging 15-16 minutes per sport. With Morgan Rielly, Chris Tanev, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Jake McCabe locked into common spots, Hakanpaa would compete with Simon Benoit, Timothy Liljegren, and Conor Timmins for the remaining positions. Even when he secures a spot, Hakanpaa may incessantly discover himself within the press field, making his presence extra of a rotational possibility reasonably than a big contributor.
In the end, Hakanpaa can be insurance coverage for the Maple Leafs protection, and his damage historical past suggests he can not deal with a full-season workload. If issues don’t work out, basic supervisor Brad Treliving has different choices internally or through future acquisitions. Proteau believes Toronto followers shouldn’t get too labored up over this example. Whether or not or not Hakanpaa indicators, it’s unlikely to have an effect on the group’s success this season.
Merchandise Two: Mitch Marner Gearing Up for a Large Season Amid Contract Rumors
Mitch Marner is taking his offseason preparation significantly because the rumors surrounding his future in Toronto swirl. With unrestricted free company looming subsequent 12 months and a long-term contract probably on the horizon, Marner appears decided to make an announcement this season—whether or not to safe a giant contract with the Maple Leafs or put together for brand new alternatives elsewhere.
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In line with Elliotte Friedman on 32 Ideas: The Podcast, Marner has been working in the course of the offseason. He’s been coaching arduous and sharing the ice with some elite firm. Friedman talked about, “I imagine he’s in Vail (Colorado) this weekend with Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon… He’s regarded dynamite with Crosby and MacKinnon.”
Coaching alongside among the NHL’s finest gamers, Marner seems to be centered on getting into the upcoming season in high kind. Whether or not his coaching companions are a glimpse right into a future transfer or just a part of his preparation for Group Canada within the upcoming 4 Nations Match, Marner’s dedication is clear.
Given the Maple Leafs’ current contract commitments to Auston Matthews and William Nylander and John Tavares’ probably need to remain in Toronto, Marner’s future has been the topic of heavy hypothesis. Whereas buying and selling him has been extensively debated, Marner appears able to show himself, carrying a chip on his shoulder into the 2024-25 season. This might sign an thrilling 12 months for followers of the All-Star winger, who appears poised (or as a minimum getting ready) for a breakout marketing campaign amid all of the contract discuss.
Merchandise Three: Can the Maple Leafs Replicate the Bruins’ Goaltending Success?
Whereas some may fear in regards to the Maple Leafs’ goaltending scenario because of a perceived lack of expertise, there’s cause for optimism. The Boston Bruins just lately proved that an unsure goaltending tandem can nonetheless flourish beneath the fitting circumstances, and the Maple Leafs may very well be poised for the same final result.
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The Bruins’ goaltending duo of Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark didn’t initially seem to be a dominant power. Swayman had solely 10 NHL video games earlier than stepping right into a 1A/1B position, whereas Ullmark had fewer than 100 NHL begins over six seasons. Nevertheless, as soon as given the chance, each goaltenders excelled. By the tip of the 2022-23 season, they received the William M. Jennings Trophy for permitting the fewest targets towards.
The Maple Leafs discover themselves in the same scenario. At 30 years outdated, Anthony Stolarz is coming off a powerful season with a 2.03 goals-against common and a .925 save proportion. Regardless of solely enjoying 27 video games, he’s at a profession juncture just like Ullmark’s, the place he is likely to be ready for an opportunity to indicate he generally is a true starter.
Alternatively, Joseph Woll has extra expertise than Swayman did when he bought his break. Woll was a standout collegiate goalie, and though accidents restricted him final season, his potential is simple. If he stays wholesome and types a 1A/1B tandem with Stolarz, the Maple Leafs may see related outcomes to what the Bruins achieved.
Nobody anticipated the Bruins’ goaltenders to carry out at such a excessive stage, so why can’t this group’s duo additionally shock individuals? Each Stolarz and Woll have proven flashes of success in restricted motion. With the fitting alternative, they might replicate Boston’s success this season.
What’s Subsequent for the Maple Leafs?
The continuing scenario with Marner has turn out to be a focus for debate amongst Maple Leafs followers. It brings up many polarizing features of getting a hometown star who appears to like enjoying in Toronto however may additionally really feel overshadowed by one other participant (Auston Matthews) on the group. Whereas Marner has persistently been one of many Maple Leafs’ high performers, it’s straightforward to marvel if he carries a chip on his shoulder about not being seen because the franchise’s finest participant.
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His performances counsel he’s pushed to show himself, however his agent’s dealing with of his previous contract has fueled the drama. Marner’s play, good or unhealthy, may present plenty of hypothesis this season.
