Maple Leafs Seek Solutions to Mediocre Start as Injuries Persist

The Toronto Maple Leafs are determined to turn around their lackluster start to the 2025-26 NHL season as they prepare to face the Philadelphia Flyers on October 28. With a record of 5-5-1 after the first 11 games, the team is grappling with both performance issues and injuries that have disrupted their lineup. General manager Brad Treliving is exploring potential trades to bolster the roster, but players acknowledge that it is ultimately up to them to improve their game.

Identifying Structural Issues

Key to the Maple Leafs’ struggles has been their disjointed play across all three zones. This lack of cohesion has resulted in frequent odd-man rushes against them, contributing to their uninspiring record. The defensive unit, which includes players like Chris Tanev, who is expected to return after a concussion, has not significantly changed in personnel.

Forward William Nylander, who missed two of the last three games due to a lower-body injury, emphasized that the team is making fundamental mistakes. “I think it’s an easy fix,” Nylander said. “We’re making stupid mistakes, giving up those kinds of chances.” Despite this assertion, the team’s recent performance, exemplified by a 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, indicates that addressing these mental lapses is critical.

Captain Auston Matthews has also faced challenges, recording only eight points in 11 games. With a rotating cast of wingers, Matthews has struggled to find consistent chemistry. At practice, coach Craig Berube paired him with Nylander and Matthew Knies, hoping to ignite the offensive effort.

Injury Updates and Goaltending Challenges

The Maple Leafs are dealing with several key injuries that further complicate their situation. Scott Laughton, who sustained a lower-body injury during the preseason, is close to returning, though he will not play against the Flyers. Laughton expressed relief at being back on the ice, saying, “It’s a nice milestone to hit, just to get out and practice again and be around the guys.”

Defensively, Tanev’s imminent return is a welcome relief. “Feel good,” he commented after completing concussion protocol. His presence is expected to stabilize the blue line, which has been underperforming.

In goal, Anthony Stolarz has not replicated his previous season’s success, currently holding an .886 save percentage and a record of 3-4-1. His performance has been affected by the high number of goals allowed by the team, which ranks second-worst in the league with 31 goals against at five-on-five play. Stolarz’s struggles have raised concerns, as he has not been able to stop high-danger chances effectively, with a .791 save percentage in that category.

Backup goaltender Cayden Primeau has been pressed into service due to the absence of Joseph Woll, who was away for personal reasons. Primeau has not performed well, allowing 13 goals on 80 shots for an .838 save percentage. The team is hopeful that Woll can return soon to improve their goaltending situation.

As the Maple Leafs head into their matchup against the Flyers, they are aware that the path to recovery lies in addressing both their structural issues and individual performances. With the right adjustments, they aim to shift the momentum in their favor and climb out of their current mediocrity.