Depth scoring
The second wish on the list is depth scoring. Leafs fans are all too familiar with the effects of scoring drying up in the playoffs.
While the Core Four can carry the team during the regular season, the playoffs are an entirely different beast. As such, the Leafs need to get scoring from their bottom six to support the top players on the team.
The wish here is to get players like Max Domi, Bobby McMann, Nick Robertson, and Max Pacioretty all chipping in regularly.
A true wish come true would be getting consistent scoring up and down the lineup. That situation would make it impossible for opposing coaches to play matchups. Moreover, it would give the Leafs an edge in tight games.
After all, if there’s one thing we’ve seen in the past Cup champs it’s their impressive depth across the board. That’s why depth scoring is atop our wish list for 2025.
Now, there is one other issue related to depth scoring: Will the Leafs need to add pieces to improve depth scoring at the trade deadline?
Yes, that’s a possibility. If GM Brad Treliving feels that there is a need for more additional players to complement the current bunch, then there may be some moves come March 7.
Then again, the first two months this season have shown that the Leafs do have solid internal options who could step up. The assumption would be that players like Domi, McMann, Fraser Minten, and even David Kampf have about two months to show they can be those depth guys the team needs.
Otherwise, Leafs management will need to look under stones to find value players that won’t cost an arm and leg. So, keep an eye on the next six weeks or so. We’ll know more about who’s available by the time the 4 Nations tournament rolls around.