The Toronto Maple Leafs extended their losing streak to five games with a 3-2 defeat to the Chicago Blackhawks. Insider Elliotte Friedman downplayed immediate trade possibilities, emphasizing effort over roster changes. Coach Craig Berube remains secure for now despite the team's struggles.
The Toronto Maple Leafs' 3-2 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday highlighted ongoing issues, including a five-game skid that has left them six points behind the Boston Bruins in the Atlantic Division. Despite the defeat, young players like Easton Cowan and Nicholas Robertson brought notable energy, with Cowan displaying urgency in battles and rushes that echoed his AHL performances with the Toronto Marlies.
Elliotte Friedman, in a Saturday Headlines segment, dismissed speculation about firing coach Craig Berube, stating, 'I don’t believe so. Not right now. I don’t see that right now.' Friedman argued that the team's challenges stem more from effort and structure than roster construction, noting Berube can influence play regardless of personnel. He highlighted that trades are unlikely due to a thin market and the high cost of acquiring players like Calgary Flames' Rasmus Andersson, which would demand assets such as Matthew Knies—a non-starter for Toronto.
Goaltending has faltered this season, with Joseph Woll missing the first month and Anthony Stolarz now sidelined indefinitely, contrasting last year's strong tandem. Friedman stressed general manager Brad Treliving's firm stance against overpaying, avoiding repeats of past deadline missteps. While veterans show skill, they lack the desperation of youngsters like Cowan, raising questions about spreading that hunger upward.
The Maple Leafs host the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena, where a win could ease pressure for roster shakeups focused on depth in defense and bottom-six forwards.