Toronto Maple Leafs Roundtable: Are the Leafs Contenders?

What a week it’s been for the Toronto Maple Leafs, eh?

Mike Babcock finally listened to us! In scratching every semblance of grit and dead weight, the Toronto Maple Leafs iced perhaps the most balanced and talented lineup the team has seen since the 2004-05 lockout.

So, now that the Leafs are finally living up to their potential, thanks to their wonderful new additions, it begs the question:

Does the emergence of Travis Dermott make the Leafs able to contend for a cup this year? 

Let’s hear what the EIL staff had to say.

Mike Stephens

As Travis Dermott shatters every expectation we had for him with each passing game, I absolutely am of the belief that the Leafs can contend for a cup this year.

And yet, there are a few caveats.

Although it may be difficult to topple a powerhouse like Tampa, the Leafs possess all the necessary tools to do so. They boast a ridiculously deep forward group, a bonafide elite goaltender, and now a mobile backend capable of actually holding a lead.

In fact, the only area truly in need of improvements is at fourth line centre.

Can you imagine this current Leafs roster with Brian Boyle at 4C? The thought is borderline erotic. The only downside here, however, is there appear to be no sizeable upgrades available on the trade block.

Frankly, the Leafs would be better suited to just call up Miro Aaltonen from the Marlies to see if he could be the answer. As of today, Toronto currently sits in a playoff spot, with a 15-point lead over the next closest team.

What is there to lose?

Aaltonen is talented, fast, and there’s no harm in giving him a shot to see what you have. Regardless, come April, this team is poised to make a significant run.

Let’s enjoy it, folks.