Mercifully, the 2025-26 Maple Leafs season is about to come to a close.
For all intents and purposes, the Wednesday edition of Leafs Morning Take acted as a therapy session more than a game preview for Toronto’s visit to Ottawa to culminate their abysmal campaign.
First, we shared our quick thoughts on the latest article in The Athletic detailing significant behind-the-scenes dysfunction—starting with Keith Pelley. As more information continues to surface, the piece thoroughly outlines the organization’s downfall and key moments along the way. One major takeaway: Pelley was far more involved in trade deadline decisions than many initially believed. If much of this proves to be true – and there’s little reason to doubt it – Leafs Nation has every right to feel uneasy about the direction of the franchise heading into a crucial offseason.
After that, the conversation extended to Rick Bowness’ incredible tirade following Columbus’ season finale. In essence, he doesn’t think his team hates to lose, and if he sticks around there, he vows to change the culture of that organization. Does it sound like another team we may discuss on a daily basis in these parts? Hmm. Maybe Anthony Stolarz was right when he torched the team back in October. Hmm.
Meantime, Dennis Hildeby will take on James Reimer, who could be making his final regular season appearance in the same building that he started his career. Ottawa’s sitting a lot of their big boys as they get set for their first round series with Carolina. Some food for thought: this could be the last time we see Craig Berube behind the Leafs bench, and it could also be Morgan Rielly’s final game in a Leafs uniform. Toronto’s dropped six in a row (0-5-1), and with a loss, they would finish bottom five in the standings. Additionally, we broke down Joseph Woll’s up and down season and gave one final shoutout to Joe Bowen, who joined us on Tuesday’s show.
Next, we caught up with Marlies forward Bo Groulx. He provided a team status update ahead of the Calder Cup Playoffs before reflecting on his emotional NHL call-up earlier this season, detailing what the moment meant after a long wait and how everything unfolded behind the scenes. Groulx also broke down his 13-game stint with the Leafs, what allowed him to find success, and how the organization communicated his eventual demotion due to roster management. Beyond his own journey, he spoke highly of Easton Cowan ahead of a potential Marlies playoff run, while also touching on the development of goaltenders Dennis Hildeby and Artur Akhtyamov. He wrapped up by discussing his relationship with his father, Benoit, and why he feels he’s put himself in a strong position heading into next season.
Plenty headed your way on the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take as David Pagnotta will fill in for Jay Rosehill. We’ll recap the major storylines from the final game of the season, plus dissect locker room clean out day for the Maple Leafs in real-time.