Toronto Maple Leafs
Record: 25-17-11
Point Total: 61
Goal Differential: +6
5v5 Corsi For%: 50.1 (17th)
5v5 Team Shooting %: 8.64 (8th)
5v5 Team Save %: 91.93 (18th)
Powerplay%: 23.1 (3rd)
Penalty Kill%: 83.7 (8th)
The Leafs have taken a step back in terms of shot-attempt differential this month, but continue to succeed thanks in part to their special teams.
The strength of the team continues to be balanced scoring, as it’s next to impossible to matchup against Matthews, Marner, and Nylander when they’re on three different lines.
In the past 14 games, five Leafs have 10 or more points: Nylander, Marner, Kadri, Van Reimsdyk, and Bozak. In addition, Matthews (9) and Zaitsev (8), are not far behind. As Matthews continues to generate shots at an incredible clip, expect him to find his scoring touch in the near future.
On the down side, Toronto’s third defence pairing continues to get heavily outplayed. Both Polak and Hunwick can be relatively ineffective at advancing the puck up the ice, and this makes it difficult to establish possession in the offensive zone.
Although no one can complain about the penalty killing, the Leafs would be wise to give Alexey Marchenko an opportunity to contribute more at 5 on 5.
The fourth line also sees its ups-and-downs, and the group could use an upgrade at center. Both Ben Smith and Frederik Gauthier are known as “faceoff specialists”, but a 51% faceoff percentage is not exactly elite.
Byron Froese, who has 34 points in 44 games with the Marlies, might be their best option. He would be able to kill penalties take on defensive zone starts and chip in offensively when needed. In addition, the Leafs could keep their eye out for a potential upgrade at the trade deadline.
Where do you think the Leafs will finish this year? Do they need to acquire a fourth line center? Should Marchenko play? Comment below!