From Breakdowns to Breakthroughs: Five Statements on the Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs' season ended last year when they went against the Florida Panthers. What went wrong? What could have been fixed? By addressing these questions, we can determine the factors that contributed to their defeat and figure out how to overcome the Florida Panthers in the future.

Here are my five statements about what can be improved going into the next season.

Team Defense

The defense has to be more consistent this year. There were too many breakdowns in the defensive zone because of scoring chances in Toronto's end. Too many breakdowns in our defensive zone led to scoring chances for the opposition. Yes, I am adding the forwards into this category because they must support the defense. The defense was often left to their own devices as the forwards had already gone into the other zone, waiting for the defense to pass the puck when the defense had no one to pass it to. It is crucial that the forwards stick to their defensive responsibilities and do not expect the defense to cover for their mistakes. The defense has to be improved on this season.

Goaltending

Samsonov and Woll don't have to be outstanding, but they do have to be consistent. Samsonov was better than I thought he would be last season, often coming up big to save the team's bacon. We need him to continue being reliable and stepping up when the team needs him. It would behoove him to cut down on the bad goals. As for Woll, he has to give the team a chance to win. He must instill confidence in his teammates, assuring them that they can focus on playing their game without worrying about costly goals or disappointing performances from him. If both Samsonov and Woll perform above average, the Maple Leafs should be able to win their share of games. 

Matthews and Marner

Austin and Mitch have to be the team's leaders. They must be able to come through and put the wins on the board. There's no room for excuses. They're both the leaders in making the money. It's time to put up or shut up. If Matthews can score his regular 40 goals and Marner gets his 50 to 60 assists, all will be well. If they keep up the defensive play as they did last year, the two will be among the best players in the league, bottom bar none.

Tyler Bertuzzi, Max Domi

If Max and Tyler fit into the system, they will be great additions. If they can manage 20 goals and 25 assists, it would be miraculous. If these two players can replace Nylander's statistics, it would greatly benefit the team and make life much easier for the team. 

Team Chemistry

Last but not least is the team's chemistry. Every player will have to buy into the system this year. The success of the team relies on everyone fulfilling their roles. Coach Keef is responsible for preparing the Toronto Maple Leafs to embrace their responsibilities. It is essential for all the cogs of the team to function smoothly and efficiently, like a well-oiled machine.

Randy