Current Avatar:
No Avatar image uploaded
No Avatar image uploaded
Leafs Rumours Member Posts
RLF's Profile
RLF's Posts and Other Poster's Replies To RLF's Posts
To RLF's last 5 rumour replies
To RLF's last 5 banter replies
RLF's rumours posts with other poster's replies to RLF's rumours posts
25 Aug 2026 16:19:19
For discussion's sake. There are a few teams out there that have some promising D prospects that weren't top 5 picks and may be willing to part with them for some young offensive forward help. LA has Brzustewicz, Islanders have Aitcheson, Nash has Molendyk and Reid, Montreal has a few that may find it hard to make the jump due to so much competition.
So question is:
Is there a young D prospect out there that you would trade Cowan for?
(I am not talking about the high ends like Smits, Carels etc. I mean guys who look ready, or maybe close that might equal Cowan's value).
1.) 25 Aug 2026 15:24:41
Lameroux in Utah, there is also a lower ranked D prospect im interested in Thomas Lavoie.
2.) 25 Aug 2026 21:20:55
You know RLF that I am a huge fan of Cowan. I really don't want to trade him. But of your list..... Aitcheson would be the one that would certainly make me sit up and take notice and weigh it strongly.
3.) 25 Aug 2026 21:53:51
Suffering. I am as well of Cowan. I just threw out a few names for examples. I am jot saying I would trade Cowan for them. Don't have to pick one I mentioned. Although I also like Aicheson's development. He could turn into a physical top 4 D with offence. That would be hard to pass up.
4.) 25 Aug 2026 23:09:24
I saw Aitcheson play live in Barrie 12 times between this and last year. He is the real deal. If the Islanders keep him and Schaefer, what a pairing down the road. But he is also a very very valuable trade asset.
5.) 26 Aug 2026 12:29:31
Aitcheson would be a great target, but I don't think Islanders make that trade heads up. Leafs would need to add IMO.
6.) 26 Aug 2026 13:29:24
I just don't think we trade Cowan. Localish guy obviously wants to be here and I think we see the dog come out in him this year.
7.) 26 Aug 2026 15:30:14
I’d like to find a way to keep Cowans and still land that elusive your offensive d-man. Easier said than done I know.
8.) 26 Aug 2026 16:33:40
@Suffering Probably could if you were willing to include Knies in some kind of deal, otherwise I don't see it either.
9.) 26 Aug 2026 20:27:33
That’s out of the question, LL. Why don’t we just leave this team as is right now. Not winning nothing this year anyway. See how Andrae works out. Move Nylander next off season and get that D via trade.
No point in trading any futures for a Veteran D. If we are close to playoffs, make a decision at trade deadline but other then that go with this roster and see what we do.
10.) 26 Aug 2026 20:48:45
No, there’s not. I think we have really good D prospects as is, and some deserve NHL looks.
So no way I trade Cowan today.
11.) 31 Aug 2026 01:24:58
I want to see what Cowan does under a new coaching staff b4 I’m ready to trade him for a d prospect.
12.) 01 Sep 2026 10:43:55
Guys I think we all believe Cowan is part of the future correct? As do I, now remember if this year goes off the rails and or we miss the playoffs or lose in the first round again I really think if not gone already he’s out the door in the summer Matthews will get us a young 1C and a youngish true #1 defensemen.
I think this is kinda what management believes also. There’s a lot of options that’ll come our way. ATM unfortunately patients is key the cards will be shown soon enough. One more thing u guys think Koblar is our next 2nd line C incoming? Kid looks Fire ?.
04 Aug 2026 15:16:47
LA
Rielly $7.5M
Lorentz $1.35M
Tor
Moore $4.2M
Turcotte $.850M
LA is weak on LD, especially puck movers. In general, they do not get a lot of offence from their D and Rielly could help there. He could slot in on the 2nd pair. They would still need to move Dumoulin (likley) or Edmundson to make the cap work. Lorentz would give them a bottom 6er to fill Turcotte's spot.
From the Leafs standpoint, it would be saving some cap and getting two guys that hopefully benefit from a change of scenery. Moore has dropped off in his point production and Turcotte has never really come close to potential in LA. Both on much shorter term contracts than Rielly.
1.) 04 Aug 2026 18:31:24
I really liked Tuecotte when he came in as a kid. I'm surprised he never put it together. I'd do this trade in hopes he can at least improve a bit in a new place.
Moore is fine as well. Bit overpaid for me, but with the way contracts are going now maybe not I guess.
Good idea.
2.) 04 Aug 2026 22:22:12
Scratching my head here. Not really sure why both teams would do this. Yes Reilly's contract goes. But in the exchange we get rid of roughly $8.8M and gain roughly $5M. So we get rid of our deficit in the Salary Cap but still only have $1M in cap to the good. We also take on 2 more bottom six players while losing 1 bottom six, losing a defenseman and not replacing him.
On L. A's side. They take on that $7.5 and Lorentz $1.35 but they now are in a Negative $2 million on their cap. Maybe I am missing something here but it just doesn't seem like a great move for either team at first glance.
3.) 04 Aug 2026 22:49:47
Thought I explained my thinking on why both teams may do it including why Rielly would be an upgrade on either Dumoulin or Edmundson and that they would still need to move one of those two to make the cap work. On the Leafs side, both Moore and Turcotte line up with the current contract lengths Chaka has been signing.
Neither have trade protection and either another current player could be moved or flip one of these two if necessary. I doubt we get a replacement for Rielly in a Rielly trade. Possible, but not as likely.
4.) 04 Aug 2026 23:43:22
How many bottom 6 forwards do we need though?
5.) 05 Aug 2026 01:25:48
As you said about picking up Laine, can always trade someone to make room if these guys are better.
6.) 05 Aug 2026 01:55:22
I just don’t see the need to bring in 2 of them. Turcotte isn’t even pencilled in on the 4th line in L.A. If we just brought in Moore, it frees up an extra contract and another $850,000. Let L.A. keep Turcotte.
7.) 05 Aug 2026 16:31:24
It makes no sense. LA had 3 LD signed to multiple year contracts. One of them would have to come back on the deal and I don’t see them putting Anderson in the package, so u r getting Edmundson or Dumoulin at $3.85 or $4m for 2 seasons, which works with Chayka plan. Which either could work for 3d LS.
Remove Lorentz from the deal cause he’s a non factor. Forget Moore and Turcotte, go one for one. You save $3.5m in cap and u get a replacement for your 3rd pairing. LA only goes $1.75m in the red which they can waiver or trade someone to comply with cap.
8.) 05 Aug 2026 18:30:14
I would be good getting Dumoulin straight up for Reilly. You save l$3.5 and you get one of the steadiest disciplined d-men in the league. Very very good defensively and extremely rare he takes a bad penalty but still lays the hits out. 80 a year and 100 blocks a year. He actually would be an ideal guy to cover Raddysh defensive lapses.
9.) 07 Aug 2026 14:21:54
Not on here much, so just saw this back and forth. So, you guys would rather trade Rielly for the almost 35 year old Dumoulin who has been with 4 teams the last 3 seasons while his minutes have been reduced due to some lost foot speed. LA reduced his minutes as the year went on. He led LA in giveaways as he has trouble with foot speed. He isn't playing top pair with Raddysh. He is a 3rd pairing D now because he has trouble keeping up. He also doesn't align with what Chayka says he wants in a D. He just traded Benoit to get a better puck mover.
He isn't trading Rielly for a guy who has lost explosiveness in his skating. He is not even hitting anymore. Only 36 hits last year.
Can't see how that's better than getting Moore, a still useful bottom 6 player and a 25 year old centre (Turcotte) that was 54% on the dot last year and responsible defensively. He has changed his game to a 2 way defensive one. If Turcotte can find his offensive game as well (horrible career sh% so far), he could be a very good addition.
10.) 07 Aug 2026 14:47:36
Moore and Turcotte don’t even make the opening day roster. Both are ?. You already got 3 Moore’s. Don’t need a 4th. Mind u all better than Moore. I would be good with Edmundson over Dumoulin Tbh. You don’t need another speed guy.
Edmundson would be a perfect pairing with Andrae on third pairing or Stetcher. Plus, u save cap space $3.65m. Just don’t see the reason to make the trade without grabbing a d man back. Like I said, makes no sense for either team.
11.) 07 Aug 2026 15:43:30
I don't want either of those guys. That's why they aren't in the deal from my standpoint. As for too many bottom 6ers, evaluate who you want to keep and use some to get a bottom pair D if that's the priority if moving Rielly. I can't imagine that Joshua or Moore or Turcotte can't get a bottom pair D.
With Buffalo adding Zellweger, maybe they would move Crevier for a forward upgrade. Or the Leafs could look at bringing up a D from the Marlies to fill the 6/7 if Rielly is traded or move 1 or 2 of the above forwards for picks. There are options.
28 Jul 2026 14:51:48
The Blues have made moves to try and be a playoff contender and should have the cap room to bring in Rielly now and the future if Rielly would open up more teams on the list. With Broberg and Fowler on the left side, Rielly would by no means have to be the #1 LD. Could ask him to be the vet presence with a guy like Mailloux. He also has familiarity with Carlo, obviously.
STL
Rielly $7.5M
Tor
Tucker $.925M
Jecho ELC
While moving Tucker, basically the Blues get Rielly for the cost of Krug's LTIR. He is an upgrade on Tucker.
Leafs get a depth D on an expiring contract and a project prospect while clearing lots of cap space and giving Rielly a fresh start.
1.) 28 Jul 2026 14:20:09
Don’t gotta sell me on this one ?
Challenge here is selling it to Rielly and the Blues.
2.) 28 Jul 2026 16:48:35
He’s not waving for the Blues. What a waste of a proposal from the court jester ??
3.) 28 Jul 2026 19:15:50
Too bad we can't get you to "waive" your right to post.
4.) 28 Jul 2026 20:38:15
Good one. Real knee slapper ?????
23 Jul 2026 14:24:57
Anaheim
Oel $3.5M
Toronto
Luneau $.865M
2028 3rd
Anaheim could still use a vet D-man that can play both sides. They kept Carlsson and the $18M to stay playoff competitive and signed 35 year old Jensen to help solidify. Oel can help that. They will still need to move some cap to likely sign Gauthier still because as I said before, you give Carlsson $18M, Gauthier isn't taking $6-$7M.
I suspect they are trying to move either Killorn or Kreider.
Leafs get younger on D, but picking up my favourite target for the past couple years in Luneau.
1.) 23 Jul 2026 13:52:28
I like the target and think this is a fair trade RLF.
I agree Leafs need to get younger on the back end and if they can't move Rielly, then I honestly believe OEL needs to go (they don't need both IMO).
2.) 23 Jul 2026 13:53:01
So the Ducks already have cap issues and your solution is for them to do a trade in which they take on more cap?
3.) 23 Jul 2026 14:07:55
So I am confused. Is this a move towards a rebuild or a retool?
4.) 23 Jul 2026 14:19:52
Ckps, as I said, I suspect they are trying to move Killorn or Kreider. Both make over $6M. So that is how the will likely try and open cap space. Take of Luneau's salary, demote Broissoit likely and they would have only taken on about $1.5M. Trade either of the others for a prospect, even if they have to sweeten the pot and they would have about $13M left to sign Gauthier and fill out the roster.
Suffering. I don't see it as either.
Luneau is a developed prospect who should be NHL ready. Right shot puck moving D, which having puck movers is a priority for Chayka. Leafs have McCabe 32, Tanev 36, Raddysh 30 and Stetcher 32 (plus Rielly at 32 if not traded). They have lots of experience. Andrae is the only young D they have penciled in and he is small and a left shot. Luneau is 6'2" and a right shot. Leafs clear some cap as well. I see it as a hockey trade for now and the future.
5.) 23 Jul 2026 17:20:20
That ship has sailed RLF for a trade with the Ducks. You r late to the party with this one.
6.) 23 Jul 2026 18:47:00
I arrived at this particular party 2-3 years ago.
7.) 23 Jul 2026 19:05:11
Good comeback RLF ?
8.) 23 Jul 2026 19:56:49
Just curious what it is about Luneau you find so trade worthy?
9.) 23 Jul 2026 21:40:30
Good question LukeFox. Aside from that tho maybe next offseason I’d consider this. It’s not a bad trade, but the Leafs have gambled enough with this new lineup. Adding in a young player on defense right now doesn’t sit well with me. Show me RLF your pairings and tell me why you targeted him.
10.) 23 Jul 2026 22:41:06
Ya and have been the court jester at this particular party for everyone else’s amusement and entertainment. ?????
11.) 24 Jul 2026 12:23:02
Without going into massive detail, I like Luneau because he has the size, skating ability, very good point shot and great offence instincts. Joins the rush to push offence. He has matured defensively, as they concentrated on that his first half the season in the AHL. Even willing to fight when needed. If he hadn't lost a year of development due to that leg infection, he would be even farther along imo.
Simply put though, the guy has produced at every level. Gets called up for one game end of season and scores. Wasn't a shot from the point or anything, he joined the rush and banged in a rebound.
Just my opinion, but he has all the tools to be a top 4 D.
Champ, they kept me around for 2-3 years as entertainment? Awesome. Didn't see you there, guess you weren't invited. ??
12.) 24 Jul 2026 20:04:18
Ok Tomas Keberle banged in a rebound once too.
13.) 24 Jul 2026 18:30:42
Definitely don’t want to be at the same party as you. Can only mean its guest list is full of ??????. Listening to your reasoning about Luneau is comical. You r truly a court jester. In 3 yrs he’s played a total of 14 nhl games 4pts total but he’s excelled. He hasn’t been able to break through on a ducks team that has one of the worst d’s in the league and they have so much faith in him becoming a top 4 d man they went out and signed Jensen a RD even though they have Helleson Cole and Him as RD.
I’m not saying he won’t be an nhl d man I’m sure one day he will but if he couldn’t crack the ducks top 6 what makes u think he will be a top 4 anywhere else
14.) 24 Jul 2026 23:16:41
@ Champ.... I have had debates with RLF re: Luneau in the past. It isn't that I did not like Luneau. I just had a problem with some of the packages involved. I do think Luneau will be one of their top 6 this year for sure. Possibly there maybe top 4. Here he would have a shot at top 6 depending who our final cast is. As far as you saying about breaking through. If you look at the Ducks Defense last year. They were not a weak defense and actually had some depth. Trouba was there as well as Guas and Carlson at the dealine.
Right now he would not be might first choice for a young add to the leafs D-core but he would for sure be in my top 3 for prospects from other teams. Luneau can play left or right d by the way. But we all know you think only players that can shoot left or right should only play on that side of the rink.
We can explain it to you but we can't understand it for you.
15.) 26 Jul 2026 10:24:17
Suffering, this guy does nothing for the leafs so trying to sell him as a future anything is ridiculous. Chayka has a 2yr plan. OEL is signed for 2 more seasons. The guy he’s getting rid of is Rielly. Ducks not adding more cap space. They need more.
They're going to have to add a guy like luneau or another prospect or a high pick if they want to get rid of Killorn or kreider contracts. Teams know verbeek handcuffed himself by allowing Carlsson to get offer sheeted and now will make him pay for it by hosing him on a deal to take a contract off his hands so he can have the money to sign Cutter.
13 Jul 2026 19:52:50
I get Rielly likely won't waive for Chicago. Point was if he would in my trade post. Let's say he won't. Then bring in another team.
SJ
Rielly $7.5M(TOR)
CHI
Orlov $6.5M(SJ)
TOR
Kaiser $1.7M(CHI)
SJ switches out the one year left on the older Orlov's contract for a younger vet in Rielly signed longer term.
Chicago gets a vet D in exchange for one of their many D prospects
Leafs get a puck moving LD younger than Rielly and saves a lot of cap space.
1.) 13 Jul 2026 21:04:27
Getting creative w a 3 team trade ?. I like your creativity bro ?
Toronto ✅
Rielly ✅
Chicago ✅
San Jose ?
The only roadblock I see is San Jose. Will the Sharks invest almost $25m for the next 4x years on 3x aging D-man? (Rielly, Nurse and Trouba)
They gotta prioritize signing Celebrini, Misa and Stenberg.
2.) 13 Jul 2026 21:41:17
Three way deals still exist?
3.) 14 Jul 2026 01:13:14
Rielly trade talks are heating up for sure and offers are coming in and like the reports are saying he’s not caving for any team in terms of retaining or adding another player. So someone eventually is going to come with the offer he wants and Rielly will be gone.
If not, he’s starting the season on the roster and if he bounces back his value will go up and the trade deadline will be interesting to say the least.
4.) 14 Jul 2026 13:59:21
@Champ
Trade deadline????
When it comes to Rielly the Leafs are all in or all out and they gotta figure this out now!!!
If the Leafs are in the hunt there’s no way Rielly will wave his no movement clause.
If the Leafs suck, that means Rielly sucked too. Now the Leafs will be offering picks and prospects to rid them of his contract. Not the other way around.
Take the cash and run!!!!!!
RLF's banter posts with other poster's replies to RLF's banter posts
11 Aug 2026 14:28:28
We all have wanted the Leafs to get bigger and they had few RW prospects. I am not saying there is a superstar in the making, but they at least have some potential Right shots forwards in the system now, and most with good size. Recent drafting of Plesovskikh, Belle, Nansi, Olsen and Pepoy. None are under 6'1". Most already over 200lbs. For the Marlies, last year they picked up the 6'2" Valis. This year Holinka should make the jump and they added Rybinski and Buhr.
All 3 are 6'2".
Buhr will be an interesting one to keep an eye on imo. Plays an aggressive, in your face game. Good skater and forechecker. Goes to the dirty areas and hits hard. He's on a one year show me AHL deal after a point per game season in College and earning an AHL contract after 5 games with the Marlies last year.
Anyhow, point being, they have tried to fill a glaring need and hopefully the Leafs can find another diamond in the rough like they did with McMann.
1.) 11 Aug 2026 21:35:21
Every year we have that one player that stands out at Training Camp and Exhibition and makes decisions hard on who gets a extended look at the beginning of the season. I think Holinka is that guy this year. He looked great from all accounts at the Development camp and the fact he is not afraid of the physical play and is a very very good two way player that can put the puck in the net, I loved the fact he had 6 power play goals but he also had 4 short handed goals.
He could very well make things very interesting re: a third line spot.
2.) 12 Aug 2026 18:51:02
Yea, he has had really good post draft progression. I was more thinking as the year goes on, who steps up on the Marlies and would be a possible call up. But if Holinka can push for a spot at camp, that's a good problem to have.
3.) 12 Aug 2026 19:04:36
It shows how a prospect can thrive if the organization works with them. In his case they sent development staff to Edmonton every month to work on his skating, workouts and nutrition.
4.) 13 Aug 2026 13:21:54
Yea, the Leafs are known for a lot of hands on with their prospects. Pretty sure that kind of attention is routine for the organization.
23 Jul 2026 14:35:38
I know some will want to roast me for this, but what is with Marner and his camp continuing to try and roast the Leafs organization and their fans. Now, it's his agent going off. Some will say he's gone, let it go. I think the Leafs and fans have tried for the most part, but it is very important to Marner and his camp to be portrayed as the victim and they just don't stop. I don't think he has been mentioned here since the end of the playoffs. I've seen players go on about ex-coaches (Babcock top of mind) because they hated the guy, but continuing to go after an organization and it's fans while in the prime years of a career, is just weird.
If the plan is to make sure the Leafs organization and fans are glad he is gone, then their plan is working. That said, if I was a Vegas fan or player/management etc, I would begin to wonder how long before this guy and his agent turn on us or what will he say when his Knight's career is over. It's the kind of drama no team wants.
1.) 23 Jul 2026 13:44:33
Marner is just like a bitter X, end of story.
I'm just tired of this guy and his team rehashing old news, it's already been said repeatedly.
Time to move-on with your life.
2.) 23 Jul 2026 14:26:04
Tags, your reaction is exactly what I am talking about and I am with you. I was interested to see how the playoffs went for him and he definitely had his time where he looked good, but was invisible the first 5 games and last 3 games of the finals.
To me, that was the end of the story. It had played out. Why they continue to stoke the fire is beyond me. It's not helping to get anyone to feel sorry for him.
3.) 23 Jul 2026 18:07:42
Marner still has to come back here as he grew up close by. I really think they're just trying to soften the blow on him with the public and blame the organization.
Bringing up the Lou situation with no bonuses on his ELC actually made me lol when I read that. That's a bitter man. He needs to chill.
4.) 24 Jul 2026 20:12:41
He seems to be on a long road of recovery from his Toronto tenure…
He has some real issues going on in his mind.
You are miles away.
You have millions in the bank.
You have a beautiful wife and child.
I for one am not understanding any of it….
5.) 24 Jul 2026 21:05:50
He doesn't want to get boo'ed when Vegas comes back to Toronto.
I'm sure many fans will boo him this time around because there won't be any Marner appreciation video for the fans to cheer/boo (mixed reactions).
Sounds like he is trying to put the blame solely on Leafs management for their false promises and saying nothing bad against the fans.
I think he's trying to get on our good side.
Basically he thinks us fans are idiots and will just forget all the BS that was spewed!!
6.) 24 Jul 2026 22:26:43
In fairness. It was not him saying it. It was his agent who, for years, even for his down home Good old boy persona, loves to talk and hear himself and is not one of NHL teams' fave agent to deal with. Ferris as good of as an agent as he us has a side not many like. Including some clients.
Most of what he said on that interview true if false should not have been said. In my opinion by doing so his ego might have just cost him some future clients. Some things are to be left behind closed doors. We all have moved on. Even Marner …. But not the almighty Darren Ferris.
7.) 24 Jul 2026 23:26:21
Suffering.
In my opinion.
If Ferris did that without Marner's knowledge, he would have been fired. I think Marner and his camp knew full well what was going on.
8.) 24 Jul 2026 23:49:58
I am not defending Marner. Just saying what a slimy agent he has. Pretending he is standing up for his client, when all he was doing was airing a grudge he had with Lamoriello and private talks with Treliving that I am sure every G.
M is now looking at him in a different light and will be asking for conversations to be recorded and NDA's signed etc.
9.) 25 Jul 2026 00:09:09
Agreed on Ferris, he definitely is slimy.
Just for me, I think if someone who represents me goes out and starts spewing this stuff again after so many years without my consent, I would 100% fire him on the spot.
This makes Marner look petty, resentful and vengeful.
It's not a good look for him and he should definitely distance himself from it if he truly had no knowledge.
Again, my opinion and I may be completely off base, but that's how I see it.
10.) 25 Jul 2026 00:20:44
All I will say in closing is. If Marner and his Young family are happy. Then good for them. All of us should strive for that. Not just for ourselves but for the world in general. We are in a crazy world.
All this is, is a hockey site and we do have tongue in cheek back and forths at times amongst ourselves. But we don’t need to wish ill will upon anyone. Let’s move on to the next trade wish list. Cheers crew. ?
11.) 25 Jul 2026 00:25:11
I'm not wishing any ill will on Marner.
It's just time to move on and put all this history to bed.
Cheers ?.
12.) 24 Jul 2026 00:43:37
I just know that Ferris is and has been for a long while a wildcard. If you give him a forum he will puff his chest out, thinks he walks on water. This is probably Marners last contract anyway, but I think he will at a certain point distance himself (He still has to pay the agent commission regardless), but even he knows this puts him in a worse light than he was in.
All I know is this was classic Ferris. As someone else pointed out, Marner is a local boy and will be back in the area at some point and of course for future games. No player no matter what wants a target on them like Ferris just did. His ego came through when he said and I paraphrase.... I told him not to sign but he didn't listen to me. You never tell the public something like that. Total B.S move by a agent. He is the complete opposite of Pat Brisson who G.M's very much respect.
13.) 25 Jul 2026 09:32:43
Marner's perspective of being a local boy is my point.
What would you do if you were Marner and you had no knowledge of what Ferris was going to say?
This is not a good look for Marner. He clearly should fire Ferris, eat the commission and distance himself from this situation as quickly as possible.
14.) 25 Jul 2026 12:17:18
I agree. I would be distancing and dumping him. Would certainly be talking to a lawyer to go over that agent contract to void it based on fiduciary breach.
22 May 2026 17:33:30
There is still so much talk going on about how well Marner is doing in the playoffs and it's a Toronto thing. Things like - there wasn't enough bottom 6 support in Toronto. The fan and media pressure is too much etc. The "see it wasn't Marner" narrative is running wild.
The one thing that isn't mentioned (at least I haven't heard it) is simply that the Vegas stars show up and up their game in the playoffs and Toronto's didn't. This isn't a knock on how well Marner is playing, he is playing well. His first 5 games though, he wasn't very noticeable, despite claims of he is playing great defensively so he's still playing great.
His name is now mentioned because of the point totals he is putting up through the offence provided, not the defensive game. From my point of view, the others picked up for Marner offensively in the first 5 games which allowed him to relax a bit and just play the game. That never happened in Toronto. Marner deserves credit for sure, but it's not a Toronto, the city thing, is was from Toronto having stars that don't want to play a hard game. In Vegas they will, and they get the results because of it.
1.) 22 May 2026 17:08:16
I think a big part is the competition he is playing against.
I don't mean just the quality of teams (Utah & Anaheim), but also the fact he's playing on their second line and not get the hardest match ups.
2.) 22 May 2026 19:44:40
No sense beating a dead horse. He doesn't play for us anymore. He is in a good place mentally and physically on and off the ice. We just need to close the book and worry about where our current roster is heading.
3.) 22 May 2026 21:50:37
Tags. Lower quality of competition would help.
Suffering. The horse isn't dead, it is talked about in the media daily. Even Vegas players, coaches and players from other teams put their two cents in. This post is about the Leafs roster though. That's my point. It's not the city, the fans, the media, it is about having built the team around too many support style stars.
Seldom do they impose their will on the other team. They wait for someone else to do that. It's hard to out skill someone with your face against the glass.
Let me ask you then, do you believe in the Leafs stars? (Matthews, Nylander).
4.) 22 May 2026 23:48:38
In regards to your question about Nylander and Matthews? No! I know everyone talks about retooling or trading them and rebuilding. To be honest years ago I could see Matthews becoming more and more a playing on the perimeter player, moreso when playoffs arrived. Nylander might be one of the most talented players to play the game for sheer skill in the last couple of decades for the insane things he can do with his speed and his hands. But he doesn't bring it consistently. In the last couple of years I have become completely open to trading both of them. Matthews stock has dropped in the past couple of years from where it was but even coming back from injury a team will offer a very good player and a good prospect and a 1st round pick. Nylander's stock has probably risen actually as his point per game production as gone up. So he would probably bring a good player and a couple of good prospects and a 1st if packaged with a lesser player.
Truthfully the return and the possibility of then using one of the better prospects and 1 if not 2 of the draft picks, puts us actually not in a rebuild as some would think. It would be more about adding 3 good players with more balance to replace the 2 big names that have also come to the end of the line with the failed Shanaplan.
I was watching the Canada game the other day at the World Championships and my Son in Law who is actually a Ottawa fan called me and said " Obviously a fantasy question but if you had a chance to Give up Nylander and Matthews and get 3 Dylan Holloways that could bang and score would you do it? " I didn't hesitate at all. I said "In a Heart Beat" That's the type of forwards we need. Big and strong but willing to give and take a hit, that every defencemen going into the corner knows they are going to get hit from that forward when he is on the ice.
5.) 23 May 2026 12:58:23
I would say you agree then that the 2 stars left are not the 2 that will lead to a Cup. The reason I posted what I did, because if this is true, and I believe it is, then moving forward the Leafs should be looking at moving them and building the team with new leaders instead of retooling around those 2.
6.) 23 May 2026 14:21:34
We are on the same page sir.
7.) 23 May 2026 15:45:05
Marner is not here anymore
Why are we still talking about him?
Move on already.
8.) 23 May 2026 16:39:33
Great post and comments, gentlemen. For what it’s worth I am on board with rebuilding and moving off them two as well. These young kids these days are coming in NHL ready and making immediate impacts. Get a young package now for them two, get some Vets in free agency for them to learn from.
Bring back Bobby McMann and let the rebuild begin. But before anyone, they need to find a trade for Reilly. He and Nylander would be my first two trades. Matthews and Stolarz to follow.
9.) 23 May 2026 17:28:17
Golftown. I explained the reason for the post as it was in regards to what Toronto should do with Matthews and Nylander if they aren't the type of players to lead. Marner, although the point leader for Vegas (only by 1 now), is not the only producer. The other Vegas stars have also played well and pick it up when Marner doesn't produce. Marner has 1 point in the 2 conference final games. Who has lead in the conference final so far - Eichel, Barbashev, Dorofeyev. Howden has 11 points. Theodore has 9 from the D.
Marner leaving and having success elsewhere shows as a group of stars, the Leafs were too flawed together. This should help more realize what some have been saying for a while, it wasn't the right formula. For me, it is move them now while they still have high value. It is not as much about Marner as it is about confirming Matthews, Nylander and Marner weren't the right mix, so let's move on and find the right mix instead of continuing the insanity. Retool, rebuild, remix, what ever you want to call it.
02 May 2026 13:37:21
Well Suffering, Marner came through big in a series clinching game with 2 goals and an assist. Most on here would wish he did it for Toronto as well.
Torts said it was his best game of the series and that he looked comfortable on the ice.
I guess Torts wanted him to do more offensively after all, since his best game is the one he produced in.
1.) 02 May 2026 12:47:31
@RLF We sure Mitchy doesn't check this site? Lol.
I watched a lot of that game and he looked better than I have ever seen him in Toronto. If he keeps playing like that night in and night out he will win a cup in his career for sure.
2.) 02 May 2026 13:27:13
LL. Apparently he was checking into the Vegas sites for the last 3 years. lol
3.) 02 May 2026 14:37:43
Make fun of him all you want. He did something incredible this year though.... He outscored the whole complete team of the Leafs in the Playoffs by himself. lol lol
4.) 03 May 2026 05:44:31
@auffering, who made fun of him?
I commented that he will win a cup because he played such an epic game and I wish he did so with the Leafs. Where in that comment did you read any degradation towards Marner?
I enjoy your insights on many things, but you need to calm down with the high strung comments.
RLF and I made a joke about the guy, after commenting about his amazing game.
Chill buddy.
5.) 03 May 2026 11:24:49
I’m chill. My post was also in jest hence the lol. I wasn’t poking fun at you it was in reply to RLF with the checking the Vegas sites comments. I followed a fun poke with a fun poke. I have no issue with you guys at all. Now a few others on here make me roll my eyes. All good dudes. Enjoy the weekend.
16 Mar 2026 12:49:47
Roy 5 games 2 goals and a fight with Colorado 12:58 ATOI.
McMann 2 games 3 goals 2 assists with Seattle 18:50 ATOI.
Laughton 5 games 2 goals 1 assist with LA 16:10 ATOI.
Only Roy getting less ice time than he did with the Leafs, as Colorado is possibly the best team in the League.
Laughton avg 13:40 in Toronto.
McMann had avg 15:19 in Toronto.
So yes, it is a Leaf problem.
1.) 16 Mar 2026 11:58:31
Meaning Berube?
2.) 16 Mar 2026 12:11:09
Rsears. Could be. Also could be the culture in that room from all the long standing Leafs.
They remind me of the Senators in the Alfredsson days. Mostly skill then tried to change and get tougher etc. The big difference, the Sens actually had playoff success before it all went down hill.
I said this back at the start of the season. These Leafs are mentally broken. The guys around a long time have let the playoff losing get to them and lack confidence. They play and look defeated.
3.) 16 Mar 2026 14:36:13
I do understand culture, an important intangible that can easily translate to a willingness to deliver at your peak 100% of the time.
Not winning for 58 years has, in part, created that. Knowing how to win is part of the needed culture change.
That was part of my rationale for sending Cowan to the AHL.
4.) 17 Mar 2026 01:01:15
@RLF I think Laughton wasn’t used well in this lineup. Roy was solid for us but was streaky, and McMann same thing. When we look back at this year's roster, I think it will come down to the fact that this team wasn’t built to be successful in a Berube system.
He wanted to play dump and chase hockey, but the problem is they were and still are too slow of a team… I also think you can chalk it up to the fact that our defence as a whole has been awful.
5.) 17 Mar 2026 12:09:34
Goat. I think the idea was/is that any team can play a Berube style game, but they have to want to, and commit to playing that way. Too many Leafs don't want to. I don't think Berube is a bad coach, but I still think the most logical thing to do is remove him end of year.
The real problem isn't the McMann's or Roy's, it's the original build this team was based on. Your top players also have to buy into playing a playoff style game. The Leafs top players don't. No playoff success under Keefe either, who coached a completely different style. I have never seen Matthews, Rielly and even JT look so defeated as they do this year. And I don't mean now, I mean all season. Leafs can changed the complimentary players all they want. They can get players with more speed and less size and physicality, but I think they already tried that. It's on the top players when it comes down to it.
How often do we see Matthews, Nylander, Rielly or JT take their frustration or anger out on the other team (or Marner)? We don't. That's the problem to me. Your leaders have to lead. The Leafs leaders are passengers who wait for someone else to lead. Even Matthews said it, although we are not sure who he was referring to, I knew who I am referring to, and he's one of them.
As for Laughton. When we got him and going into this season, I thought he should be the 3C, I didn't get a lot of support back then or for this year. Many called him a 4th liner even before he got here. No many say he was misused, even though he was slotted where they thought he should be (not saying you). Roy was Meh. But at least he got turned into a 1st round pick+. McMann was great value and played with a little edge, but not all the time. That is where I wanted him to be more consistent.
6.) 17 Mar 2026 14:51:01
RLF, I agree with your McMann assessment. Liked when he had the edge and that was when he would score on a consistent basis. He would go to the net hard and take the body hard with his speed. Where he would hit the slumps is when he thought his speed meant he was in McDavid or McKinnon territory.
Yes he had similar top end speed as them but he doesn't possess those same hands and skill moves. I think with the right coach that harnesses that physicality with the speed he will be more consistent in the point production.
7.) 17 Mar 2026 22:43:02
You could tell already in preseason the Leafs were in trouble this season.
08 Sep 2026 19:41:28
LL, I don't see it as a rebuild. Aliaksai is 25 and just put up a 25 goal 52 point season with only 1 pp point and 3 PK points including 2 goals. He is very good defensively, but still put up points and mostly 5 on 5 (48). Willy only had 57 ev points himself last season. Add to that Ilya is only 20, has a higher ceiling and is coming off an almost point per game season in the AHL and had 4 points in 4 games at the NHL level while being given a mostly defensive role and playing centre.
AP is at $3.375M for 3 years and IP is still on his entry level. Cap space would be really good for Toronto to have.
Of course it is all moot as the Leafs don't have the contract space available and the Caps don't have the cap space.
08 Sep 2026 13:57:08
Awesome question Gary.
You got Aliaksai, a big left shot top 9 winger already and Ilya, a big left shot centre, possibly a #2C if he continues development.
I'd probably say yes as is, but if we could get them to throw in a defensive prospect as well (Chesley) I'd be in.
08 Sep 2026 13:41:23
Thanks Thatguy. I was more looking for Hronek=, Petterson= and Debrusk= and the 2nd and 4th balance what parts of the trades.
From what you wrote - you said Hronek would require a 1st and prospect (Danford) for taking Rielly.
Then for Pettersson if the Canucks are taking Tanev, an add would be needed and then mention Gavin.
So is it
Hronek for Rielly, 1st and Danford
And
Pettersson, Debrusk, 2027 2nd and 4th for Tanev and McKenna
Is that correct?
07 Sep 2026 03:25:10
That guy. It's not as much about Rielly and Tanev, it's that you also added a 1st and Danford. How about this - break down the trade value for me then. Of what the Leafs are giving up, what is for Hronek, what is for Petterson and what is for DeBrusk and how the 2nd and 4th Van is giving up balances things out.
06 Sep 2026 16:26:32
The current or upcoming first OA pick in almost any draft will land 2/3rds to 3/4 of what Van is giving up. In some cases more. On top of that Leafs are giving up Rielly, Tanev, a 1st and Danford. Heavily in Van's favour.
11 Sep 2026 14:05:51
I think the animosity that is growing between Canada and the States due to political issues will have a greater impact on where players may want to play.
But yes, having some open competition instead of all spots penciled in would be a better set up and being able to attract free agents from those leagues.
09 Sep 2026 20:50:36
The contracts in general being thrown out are ridiculous. Players and agents are looking at % of cap and for the most part, they all want as much as they can get. You have 22 year olds with one year under their belt now looking at $50M bucks. It's nuts. If I hear an NHLer whine anymore about needing to make as much as they can because their career is so short, it would just show how greedy athletes have become.
In the past that argument may have held some water, but now, not even close. The scary part is that if he is getting more than he should for the first couple of years and projected less than he should for the last couple years of the deal, (which is often how they balance the long terms on really young players), then how much do they think he is going to be worth the last 2-3 years of his contract? $9M, $10m? More?
04 Sep 2026 19:28:02
If the plan is to put Roslovic in the top 6, they don't really have a deterrent of any kind in their top 6 (not like they ever have). No one worries about Matthews, Nylander, JT, Roslovic or even Knies really. McKenna is obviously not going to deter anyone.
The only one with the speed to keep up and the will to engage would be Duhaime. And unless his puck skills magically got better this off-season, even with Matthews and McKenna for instance, he likely hits career highs of 10-15 goals and 30 ish points.
That puts JT with Willy and Knies. Roslovic goes to the 3rd line where I would assume he is with Paul and Cowan. 4th line of Joshua, Scissons and Blueger.
I have actually thought about this scenario before, but I doubt the Leafs would even consider it in pre-season.
25 Aug 2026 20:19:15
Yes, for one Bowen is alive as suffering said. Rest his soul is for those who are no longer with us. They picked who they thought was best. You may be right that David would be better, but he shouldn't just be given the job because of his dad. I don't see any disrespect here.
25 Aug 2026 20:15:18
LL. That's my point though. In many cases, it's really close with Matthews and a lot of centres who are outside what most would consider the top tier. As for Celebrini. He was almost a ppg as an 18 year old on what was a poor team until he arrived. He has transformed that team because he is that good imo.