The Toronto Maple Leafs have not technically played half of the NHL season (41 games) but the Christmas break represents a convenient time to assess what is going on.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have had a very up-and-down season.
On one hand, they've been beset with injuries. On the other, most of those injuries were to inconsequential players.
On one hand, they've played well below expectations, but on the other, the results are exceeding those expectations.
On one hand, their off-season moves (including the hiring of a new GM) look absolutely embrassassing, but on the other, their record is great so no one is noticing.
The Biggest Toronto Maple Leafs Stories Heading into 2nd Half
A lot of people are taking a glass-half-full approach with Max Domi, William Lagesson etc. but the reality is pretty concerning - but no one is noticing due to the record.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are only 4 points back of Boston, but with a game in hand, and about 50 games to go. All looks well.
Unless you dig down below the surface, then things are pretty concerning.
Today we are going to talk about the three biggest issues facing the Toronto Maple Leafs as they begin the second half of the season.