Maple Leafs Could Use a Little More Nick Paul in Their Game

Sometimes, when we talk about what the Toronto Maple Leafs need to become a better hockey team, we go straight to the big names. We talk about scoring, goaltending, power plays, and whether another star player might solve the problems.

That's understandable. Stars win games. But after watching Toronto beat Colorado 6-3 on Saturday, I found myself thinking about Nick Paul. He picked up two assists, played a physical game, and seemed to be involved in just about everything. It got me thinking that the Maple Leafs could use a little more of what he brings.

Paul isn't going to score 40 goals. That's not why Toronto brought him in. He's a veteran who can win battles, make life uncomfortable for opponents, and help set a tone for the players around him. Against a fast Colorado team, that mattered.

It's About More Than Putting Up Points for Paul.

One thing I've always believed is that young players learn a lot from watching how veterans go about their work. Coaches can talk all they want, but there's something different about seeing a teammate do the hard things shift after shift.

Paul played with some bite against Colorado. He didn't just skate around hoping something good would happen. He got involved physically and made the opposition work for its opportunities.

Easton Cowan is a good example of a young player bringing that same edge. Cowan scored the go-ahead goal, his third of the season, and he's starting to show he can do more than contribute offensively. He's willing to get involved, compete, and make things happen.

Maybe Paul has something to do with that. I wouldn't pretend to know what's being said in the dressing room, but young players notice how veterans play. Good habits can rub off.

The Maple Leafs’ Stars Need Some Help, Too.

William Nylander had five points against Colorado, and Auston Matthews added four. Those are the performances that grab the headlines, and rightly so. But those players can't be expected to do everything. A team needs people who will win a difficult puck battle, finish a check, get in the way of a shot, or simply make life a little harder for the other team.

Paul can help provide that kind of support. The Maple Leafs still have defensive problems to sort out, and one good win doesn't fix everything. But I liked what Paul brought to this game.

Maybe the answer isn't always finding another star. Sometimes it's finding more players who understand what it takes to win and are willing to do the less glamorous work. The Maple Leafs could use a little more Nick Paul. And if a few younger players pick up some of his habits along the way, that would be a pretty good bonus.