Continuing from yesterday’s practice analysis, I’ll examine some remaining unanswered questions surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs depth chart and salary cap management. The fourth line, the defense, goaltending, and the salary cap are all areas of concern just days away from the 2024-25 campaign.
Question One: What’s the Deal with Fourth Line?
The Maple Leafs’ fourth line, featuring Steven Lorentz, David Kämpf, and Ryan Reaves, could be where the team makes its most significant salary cap decisions.
Even Reaves’ role, though seemingly secure, could be impacted. Ultimately, the fourth line might be where the team makes critical moves to stay cap-compliant while determining the roster’s final makeup.
Question Two: Is Liljegren on the Outside Looking In?
Timothy Liljegren’s situation with the Maple Leafs is becoming increasingly uncertain.
If he continues to slide down the depth chart, the team may consider moving Liljegren. His movement could clear up salary-cap space immediately. While surprising, Liljegren’s future with the Maple Leafs could be on the fence. It doesn’t seem logical, but could a potential trade be on the horizon?
Question Three: Salary Cap and Injuries: LTIR Solutions
With Jani Hakanpaa and Connor Dewar potentially starting the season on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), the Maple Leafs might get some breathing room in their salary cap.
The early candidates seem to be Calle Jarnkrok and David Kampf, but are others potentially prime for being moved?
Question Four: Goaltending Decisions Loom
The biggest question surrounding the Maple Leafs’ roster is whether the team will carry three goalies, as they did last season with Martin Jones.
With Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz likely locked in as the top two netminders, Murray could be placed on waivers, though he’d almost certainly be claimed by another team. Whether the Maple Leafs will take that chance or carry a third goalie remains crucial as the season approaches.
