The Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves on the brink of elimination once again, sparking conversations throughout the hockey world. The team has struggled in the postseason, with only one series win in the past 10 seasons. In 2021, they suffered a devastating 3-1 series loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
Much of the focus has been on the Leafs’ “core four” – Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares. Despite their exceptional talent and high salaries (each earning over $10 million), the team has repeatedly fallen short in the playoffs. Fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the annual disappointment.
As the Leafs trail 3-1 in a series against the Boston Bruins, speculation arises about potential changes to the team. In a recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet suggests that if the Leafs fail to overcome this deficit, significant changes may be on the horizon for the core four. Friedman believes it might be the end of an era for this group if they can’t turn things around.
With players like Marner and Tavares facing uncertain futures in Toronto, the team could be in for a major shake-up. Alongside potential changes to the core four, management and coaching staff may also be in jeopardy. Head Coach Sheldon Keefe and Team President Brendan Shanahan could be at risk of losing their positions as the Leafs look to address their ongoing playoff woes.
The Leafs are poised for a crucial offseason, with decisions looming for GM Brad Treliving. Whether it’s trading a member of the core four or making changes to the coaching staff, Toronto is facing a pivotal moment in their quest for postseason success.
