Might as well get this started. Breaking the record for most Game 7 losses in NHL history is the cherry on top of this era's legacy. Great job, Shanny.
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The scary part is that six of these losses have five of the same players on. For a team more than 100 years old.
I gaslit myself the least this year though they did a good number on me with their solid play down the stretch.
This forward group doesn't have the pride when it matters, afraid of their own shadow. The ying while Florida was the yang.
Machand for a decade single-handedly exposed the Leafs ownership group. The changes needed to be made after 2021 loss to Montreal but I suppose some people in Leafs management had to keep their job by recycling the same false hope.
There goes 60% of the NHL fanbase and viewership. Do the Leafs get a different outcome of Stolarz isn't hit by a player in the first game?
Brad had better take a sober look at what he has and REALLY understand the trajectory. It might be wise to accept a single year downturn to recoup cap space. Target different players for 2026 and then 2027. Target the precise players you want to try and form a forward group in front of this D, though they may not age perfectly.
If Matthews is injured, is it fixable with surgery? If not, it will be an expensive couple of years for this franchise.
Out: Marner, Tavares (unless in a very friendly deal and a drop down to a 3rd line role), Holmberg. Try to trade Domi for the cap space and upgrade? Can they convince Reilly to waive his no-move clause?
Try to keep Patches and tell him he will be a fixture on the team. Try and keep Lorentz and maintain that 4th line.
McMann will get a shot to stick. Robertson is a serviceable forward though I suspect Brad may try to replace him as a regular.
Ultimately, when the big chips are down the same players don't perform and it is unsustainable. They need to bring in strong personalities like Patches. It isn't just about play, it is about supreme confidence and dedication to play in the league.
