The Success of Zach Hyman Another Gut Punch to the Toronto Maple Leafs

The Edmonton winger stated that his decision to leave Toronto was made for him. His comment, plus his success with the Oilers, make his exit even more difficult for Leafs fans to digest.
May 25, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Edmonton Oilers left winger Zach Hyman (18) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
May 25, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Edmonton Oilers left winger Zach Hyman (18) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Edmonton Oilers in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports | Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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The Leafs Can Recover From the Loss of Hyman

The Leafs can recover from the immediate sting of Hyman's success in Edmonton and seeing him compete for the Stanley Cup in another uniform.

Bertuzzi is once again a free agent. If the Leafs don't want to meet his asking price or commit to him long-term, they have younger, cheaper options. It's the route they should take considering their needs on defense and in goal.

Matthews Knies continues to blossom in a power-forward role and excelled during his two playoff appearances with the Leafs. Hot prospect Easton Cowan looks like he could soon fill a prominent spot.

Hyman's play is unlikely to regress significantly within the next couple of years, especially playing alongside the Oilers stars, but four years remain on the deal after this season. During the last two years of the contract, Hyman will be 35 and 36 years old.

Perhaps, the loss won't look as bad then.

The Toronto Maple Leafs may have to remind themselves of that should they see another one that got away hoist the Stanley Cup trophy.