Maple Leafs Finally Finding the Depth Scoring They've Been Missing
Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
Though it may have taken a bit longer than fans had hoped, the Maple Leafs are finally getting their depth scoring going and it's thanks to two new additions.
When the Toronto Maple Leafs added some fresh faces to replace Mitch Marner, it was meant to bring in a new look and turn the team from perennial playoff team to legitimate Cup contender.
Things haven't turned out great so far for the team, however there are a few bright spots we can take away from the season, and one of them has been a glaring hole for years.
Roy and Joshua Bring Energy and Balance to the Maple Leafs' Bottom Six
A new emphasis on adding the right players into the top-nine has led to a turnaround for both Nic Roy and Dakota Joshua, who are both starting to get much more comfortable in a Leafs uniform.
That rings true given Joshua's two game goal streak, and Roy has been able to lock it down and provide some great two-way play.
Fans have noticed too:
Roy and Joshua starting to find chemistry is incredibly good news for the Maple Leafs, especially if the team can get Laughton back soon.
Others agreed, believing that it isn't the depth scoring that's the issue and it lies now on the stars to start producing more:
Easton Cowan got a chance to work with the two and looked solid, but so too did Bobby McMann at times. Not to mention Joshua is getting in low, finding open space and using his size and physicality to get goals.
It's about time too, as there were some concerns that the Maple Leafs yet again made a move that backfired however things are looking much better.
Joshua and Roy have combined for six points (2 goals, 4 assists) but the other depth pieces (Jarnkrok, Cowan, Lorentz, Robertson, McMann, Maccelli) have a combined 13 points as well; they aren't the issue.
Scott Laughton's Impending Return Could Elevate Toronto's Depth Even Further
When Laughton eventually comes back, he's going to likely slot into the fourth line and we could end up seeing a Max Domi scratch, as it'll be hard to see the team take Cowan or Nick Robertson out right now, though Calle Jarnkrok may sit.
But he also adds some extra depth on offense and his preseason chemistry with Steven Lorentz and Cowan, and if he can quickly find his footing upon return, it can only mean good things for Toronto.
The issue now lies in when do guys like Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies start picking things up? The captain looks lost at times, meanwhile Knies hasn't had that strong of an offensive performance since the beginning of the year.
It's been a long time since the Maple Leafs had some serious depth, but unfortunately their stars' weak production is overshadowing how good they really have been.
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