‘This is Going to Be an Offseason of Change in Toronto’, Leafs Want D-Man’s Input

Don’t expect the same Toronto Maple Leafs team that closes the 2025-26 season to be the same one that opens 2026-27. At least, not according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, who believes, “This is going to be an offseason of change in Toronto, and they’re definitely not coming back the same.” He also believes the Maple Leafs will ask a veteran defenseman for his thoughts on the team’s direction.

During a recent interview, Friedman noted, “The feeling is the Leafs don’t have enough energy right now, and that needs to improve if they want to be anywhere near a playoff team.” He adds, “There’s also a sense that a lot of what happens could depend on Auston Matthews and the direction he decides to take, with some decisions potentially being made for them based on how things play out.”

Things aren’t all bad in Toronto. While the year hasn’t gone as hoped, Friedman notes, “there were small signs of what’s been missing, like Easton Cowan stepping up and taking on a bigger opponent, which stood out because it’s something people have wanted to see.”

Still, something needs to give because the Maple Leafs are going to fall well short of expectations, and with a club under so much pressure to compete, the status quo won’t be acceptable.

Ask Tanev

One player Friedman suggests will impact the team’s direction next season is Chris Tanev. He noted:

“Chris Tanev being out is viewed as a significant loss, both for his puck movement and his presence in the room. A lot will come down to exit meetings, where it’s still unclear how players feel about their roles and future. Those conversations, along with possible changes to the coaching staff and front office, are expected to shape what this team looks like next season.”

It’s intriguing that Toronto may plus that much importance on what Tanev believes. Considering he was out most of the season and he’s older, does it really matter? It might speak to how much he’s respected in the locker room and how much he’s potentially the glue that holds the team together.

One has to wonder if the idea is to keep Tanev and see if the team can be reconstructed with him a part of the future, or if he’ll be approached about a possible move.

Next: Maple Leafs Writer Suggests That Auston Matthews Will Be Traded Out West