RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Toronto Maple Leafs enter the 2026-27 NHL season with a rebuilt roster, but their hopes still depend on their stars. After missing the playoffs last season, Toronto changed its front office, coaching staff and roster.
Speaking on The Sheet, Jeff Marek said the biggest questions remain around Auston Matthews , William Nylander and John Tavares. “Again, it’s going to come down to Matthews stay healthy?” Marek said. “Matthews scored 55 or 60? Where’s William Nylander? Can John Tavares still play at that level?”
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Marek also pointed to Matthew Knies as a key part of Toronto’s outlook. “How good can Matthew Knies be? Honestly, can Matthew Knies pop between 35 and 40?” he asked. “It’s still going to come down to, can those guys do it?”
Those questions matter because Toronto added depth around its core. Sergei Bobrovsky brings experience in goal, while No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna gives Matthews another potential top-line option. Jack Roslovic, Colton Sissons and Teddy Blueger add support.
Speaking about Bobrovsky, Marek said, “Even though Bobrovsky is the oldest goaltender in the NHL, which despite the fact that everyone will tell you he’s got the body of a 27-year-old, time is undefeated so far here.”
Maple Leafs’ new pieces still need the stars
Toronto Maple Leafs center John Tavares (91) scores a goal and celebrates with left wing Matthew Knies (23) at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images Greg Wyshynski thinks that McKenna could help, but questions several veteran additions. “We assume that McKenna is going to be good for what he is as a kid,” Wyshynski said. “Hopefully it manifests to them being better than they were last year.”
Wyshynski also questioned whether Toronto’s offseason moves fixed its problems. “A lot of those guys I’m not crazy about,” he said. “Roslovic makes Anthony Mantha look consistent with how hot and cold that guy runs.”
He added, “I said at the time when the frenzy was going on that it seemed like a lot of moves being made just because we could make some moves. And what does that ultimately manifest as, I don’t know.”
That leaves the Leafs with a familiar test. Their new depth can help, but Matthews, Nylander, Tavares and Knies must drive the offense.
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Matthews’ health remains crucial after his 2025-26 season ended early. If Toronto’s core stays healthy and produces, the revamped roster should have a stronger foundation next season.
The pressure remains on the stars. Toronto changed the supporting cast, but its season still hinges on them.
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