6 Maple Leafs Playing Well Even as the Team Struggles
It’s been a tough stretch for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Until beating the Pittsburgh Penguins by a score of 7-2, scores haven’t been going their way, defensive lapses are piling up, and too many games feel like they’re slipping through their fingers. But just because the team is struggling doesn’t mean every player is missing the mark. A few Maple Leafs players have been doing the heavy lifting, showing effort, skill, and leadership even when the scoreboard is ugly.
Player One: Easton Cowan
Easton Cowan has been a real bright spot. The rookie winger brings pace and fearless energy to every shift, and the offense has started to follow. He can wander away from the defensive plan sometimes, but he’s creating chances and driving play in a way few other forwards on the team have managed. Cowan leads the Maple Leafs in five-on-five expected goals-for percentage at about 60 percent, which is huge for a first-year player.
Player Two: William Nylander
William Nylander is still the team’s offensive spark. Even when the Maple Leafs look flat, he’s generating chances and keeping the attack alive. His defensive effort isn’t perfect every night, but when he’s on, he can change a game with his hands, vision, and creativity. He’s the one making plays that remind you the Maple Leafs can still score when it matters - especially in overtime.
Player Three: Nick Robertson
Nick Robertson has finally gotten consistent top-six minutes, and he’s making the most of them. He’s more aggressive off the puck, battling hard, and pressuring defenders. If he keeps producing, he could reach 20 goals this season. For a guy who’s had some inconsistency in the past, he’s showing he can be an important piece of this team.
Player Four: John Tavares
John Tavares continues to impress with a steady work rate and scoring touch. He leads the team with 12 goals in 25 games and seems more emotionally invested than ever, showing frustration when things go wrong and driving the team forward. At 35, and on a $4.38 million deal, he’s giving everything he has—and it shows.
Player Five: Dennis Hildeby
Dennis Hildeby has improved in goal and has kept the Maple Leafs in games even when the defense in front of him has been shaky. His .914 save percentage shows he’s making stops when it counts, giving the team a chance to hang around.
Player Six: Joseph Woll
Joseph Woll stepped in under tough circumstances and has looked calm and confident. Posting a .914 save percentage through three games, he’s showing good positioning and composure, keeping the Maple Leafs competitive even when the rest of the team struggles.
The Bottom Line for the Maple Leafs
So while the Maple Leafs might be stumbling early in the season with an 11-11-3 record (and seventh in the Atlantic Division), these players are holding things together. They’re putting in the work, making plays, and giving fans a reason to believe that better days are still ahead.