Maple Leafs News & Rumors: Pacioretty, Matthews, Marner, Lotentz & Berube – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

As the Toronto Maple Leafs wrap up their preseason, important decisions must be made before finalizing the roster and meeting salary cap requirements. However, as the regular season approaches, the Maple Leafs have shown promising signs that should give fans hope. From player performance to strategic development, here's a look at what we might know about the Maple Leafs and some of the decisions the organization must make.

First thing: Max Pacioretty's future with the Maple Leafs: Uncertain?

After the first preseason game, Max Pacioretty looked like a lock to make the team. He was quick, worked well with John Tavares, and played like a crafty veteran, showing that he can continue despite missing time due to injury. However, as the preseason wore on, that confidence seemed to fade.

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Pacioretty's recent performance, especially in the last game, has raised questions about his fit in head coach Craig Berube's system. The main issue? His north-south style of play seemed inconsistent with what Berube seemed to be looking for in his top players. Last night, he looked slow and made some questionable decisions with the puck. This included a dangerous cross-ice pass that led to Detroit's opening goal. These games tend to frustrate Berube, who prefers a straightforward approach.

While it's not the financial cost that will keep Pacioretty off the roster, his inability to adapt to Berube's style could be the deciding factor. The reality is that the Maple Leafs have young players who can contribute in the same way. As it stands now, it wouldn't be surprising if the organization chooses to give that spot to a young, fast player who better fits the team's direction.

Thing Two: The Berube Security System is impressive

One of the biggest surprises of the preseason is how well Berube's defensive system has held up. What is most impressive? Young players and deep players have increased significantly. During most of the preseason games, including the last game against Detroit, Toronto's defense kept opponents' scoring opportunities to a minimum, even against strong regular season players.

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In the last game, the Maple Leafs got off to a slow start. However, the defense shut it down after the first half, allowing just one shot on goal over 31 minutes. It was a dominant performance that completely shut down Detroit's offense and allowed the Maple Leafs to respond with a 3-2 win. Toronto's young players and depth guys' ability to utilize Berube's north-south defensive style shows real promise. If they can continue this level of play, it will push the veterans to raise their game.

The takeaway? Berube's defensive system works, and it's a style that can win games. As the regular season approaches, the team's ability to maintain this structure on defense will be critical to its success.

Point Three: Several players of the map leaves are shown well during the game

Several players stood out during the Maple Leafs' 3-2 preseason win over the Red Wings. The fourth line, featuring Steven Lorentz and Ryan Reaves, provided the key play that led to Toronto's opening goal. Lorentz was very impressive, winning battles near the boards and ending one layup by Reaves after creating pressure in the offensive zone. Their toughness sets the tone for the type of hockey body that head coach Berube might want to see.

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Auston Matthews and Tavares showed off their shooting ability on the power play, scoring a goal. Matthews' one-timer from the faceoff circle, set up by Mitch Marner, was a reminder of just how dangerous Toronto's offense can be. Marner played a key role in both power play goals. He made smart puck plays, including keeping the puck in place to set up Tavares for his stats. His hustle and vision were key to Toronto's game-changing success. All in all these players were instrumental in bringing back the win.

Thing Four: Head Coach Craig Berube Has Looked Amazing This Preseason

Head coach Berube's system and decision-making stood out during the Maple Leafs' preseason, including during the final game against Detroit. First, Berube's defensive structure showed significant progress. Although the team started the game on the wrong foot, conceding the first two goals, the defense strengthened as the game went on. From midway through the first period to deep in the third, Toronto allowed just one shot on goal over 31 minutes. This defensive game of Lockdown has been achieved mainly by young and deep players, which suggests that Berube's system is effective and quickly adopted, regardless of the level of experience.

Second, Berube's tactical adjustments have worked, especially on the power play. His move to use Matthews, Marner, Matthew Knies, Morgan Rielly, and Chris Tanev as a unit late on the power play led directly to Matthews' goal. The balance of offensive firepower and defensive awareness in that lineup was a smart call that paid off. Berube's north-south style is effective, and if his young players can't maintain this level, it may push the veterans of this team to adapt and raise their game.

What's Next for Maple Leaves?

Critical roster decisions are coming as the Maple Leafs build their regular season roster. Players like Pacioretty find themselves on the bubble, and head coach Berube must decide who is the best fit for his system. Impressive performances by depth players and young prospects during the preseason has fostered healthy competition, making the final cut a challenge for Brad Treliving and his staff.

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With the preseason in the rearview mirror, Treliving faces the daunting task of finalizing the roster while making sure he fits the salary cap. While Pacioretty's future with the team remains uncertain, one thing is clear. The Maple Leafs have impressive depth, with young players pushing hard for their spots. Decisions made in the coming days will be crucial to the formation of the club's ownership as it begins the 2024-25 season.

Upcoming options are important, and Treliving's decisions will set the tone for the start of the season. Can Berube's defensive system stand up when the plays count? But the biggest and most interesting question is who will make the final list decided. Look for the Maple Leafs to make these important decisions soon.