An Early Look at the Defense Pairings and Line Combinations of the Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been active at the start of the NHL free-agency season. Whether the moves have been useful or not, that’s debatable.
The consensus among my colleagues and myself is that the Toronto Maple Leafs seem to lack a clear direction and philosophy for the club.
Regardless of that point, it’s worth taking an early look at the lineup the Leafs could ice based on the current roster construction. Of course, this lineup is subject to change as anything can happen from now till opening night.
The lines I will discuss come from Daily Faceoff. I chose these projected line combos and defence pairings since they reveal some interesting insights into how Craig Berube could deploy the pieces given to him.
But first, a couple of assumptions. First, Mitch Marner is still on the team. He hasn’t been traded, so he plays. Second, there are no major injuries. Thus, everyone appears to be healthy. Third, Nick Robertson isn’t part of the discussion as he has requested a trade.
I can see some fans’ eyes rolling by now. First off, the top line seems serviceable. Marner and Matthews is a no-brainer. However, Knies is not be the best fit here. In fact, I’d like to see Knies with Tavares and Nylander.
Matthews and Marner need a hound like Zach Hyman or Michael Bunting. So, why not give Bobby McMann a chance? He’s about as hard working as anyone on the team. He’s a Berube-type player without a doubt.
As for the second unit, I’ve thought about landing Max Domi at centre with Tavares and Nylander on the wings. That move would seem controversial as not many people would see Domi as a second-line centre. If that’s the case, then put Domi on the wing with Nylander and Tavares at centre.
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