Elliotte Friedman reveals shocking news for Toronto Maple Leafs fans

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Julien Trekker
January 20, 2024 (4:55 PM)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs have sky-high expectations, and they will face criticism if they aren't met. Halfway through the season, there's still uncertainty about the team's performances.

A recent announcement made by a renowned insider is causing a stir in Toronto.

Elliotte Friedman said in the latest episode of 32 Thoughts that he believes the Maple Leafs are looking towards the future instead of winning now. This season could be a trial run to evaluate their assets.

"I think Toronto's thinking bigger picture. I don't think this is about this year anymore. I think they're thinking about where they're going. I really wonder if deep down, that is an organization that is saying we are not good enough to win this year. We are resetting and reshaping our roster, and we're going to do that."

With the many flaws in the team, like at the blue line or between the pipes, Treliving must consider all his options, and he must see that it'll take time to get the team where he wants to.

Maple Leafs to Rebuild Around Matthews and Nylander?

Friedman also stated that Matthews and Nylander's contracts are quite revealing.

Giving such important contracts to players means that Treliving believes in them and will try to build around these guys.

"The more I think about the Nylander negotiation, getting him signed, it was about 'what does our structure look like so we can start to rebuild the roster?'. And I think before they committed to signing Nylander, they were going - they went everywhere in the league and said - 'is there a defenseman making Nylander's money, or close to it, that we can replace him with?' and those players are not available. They're not."

Make no mistake, they'll certainly make the playoffs this season, and once you're in there, who knows what's going to happen? They could cause a surprise, but comparing them to all the other top contending teams is a bit of a stretch. Treliving will need to make major moves if he wants to compete against the Avalanche or the Oilers.

As seen on Maple Leafs Daily

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