Less Need Means A Better Chance of Catching a Big Fish
A lot of the commentary around the Maple Leafs over the last month or two has been about the trade deadline and how the Leafs should approach it.
I have always found this to be a ridiculous line of conversation.
Are Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner in their primes? Yes? OK, go all-in.
Like, how is this even a discussion? You have two of the best players in franchise history smack dab in the middle of their primes. Therefore, you go for it without hesitation.
For years I've been writing about the fetishization of first round picks and prospects. Literally everyone assumes they are going to win with the magic beans, so there is always value in trading them.
Mistakes will happen, but over time, it's the right strategy. If you are are a playoff team, and you can improve your chances to win, you should not care in the least about draft picks or prospects.
Easton Cowen is a nice prospect, but if he can help the Leafs win the cup this year it's not going to have anything to do with how he plays. Same goes for their first rounder.
I've been for trading these pieces regardless of how the team is performing and I don't think winning six in a row changes anything. This is still the same team with the same weaknesses.
However, with Robertson and McMann scoring at a similar, if not better, rate at 5v5 than William Nylander, the Leafs don't have any issues with depth scoring. The Domi situation seems to have sorted itself out, and I'm doubtful Ryan Reaves or Noah Gregor will be on a playoff roster.
With no forwards to worry about - except maybe depth pieces - the Toronto Maple Leafs are free to pursue fewer pieces, but better ones.