These three players need to do more for the Maple Leafs
As the Toronto Maple Leafs navigate a strong 10-6-2 start to the 2024-25 NHL season some of their players have struggled to make an impact despite the team's success.
Here's a closer look at three players who do not meet expectations so far:
1. Nick Robertson:
Robertson entered the season with optimism after a solid 2023-24 campaign and a good training camp where he scored five goals in four preseason games..
However, his offensive output has disappeared since the regular season began where, in 15 games, Robertson has managed just one goal on 21 shots and averaged close to 12 minutes of ice time per game.
His linemates in Pontus Holmberg and Max Domi are also struggling and limiting his potential. Without the opportunity to play alongside the Leafs' top scorers like Auston Matthews or Mitch Marner, Nick Robertson's production has suffered a lot and is leaving him on pace for a disappointing five-goal season.
2. Pontus Holmberg:
Holmberg has had a rough start and is failing to build on his prior seasons' momentum.
Despite securing a spot on the roster, his performance has been subpar and in 15 games, Holmberg has recorded only two assists with one being a secondary assist.
His underlying numbers do not paint a good look with a 39% expected goals rating and a drop in CF% to 48%.
These metrics indicate the Leafs are consistently out-chanced and out-possessed when he's on the ice and if his struggles persist, Holmberg could see his minutes diminish or even get relegated to the AHL.
3. Max Domi:
One of the most significant disappointments has been Domi who signed a four-year, $15 million deal in the offseason.
Domi was expected to bring secondary scoring and playmaking to the Leafs' lineup.
However, in 18 games he has registered just six assists and remains without goal despite ample time spent in the top-six of the offense.
His lack of production is alarming considering the investment the Leafs made in him.
With a cap hit of $3.75 million, Domi's struggles have begun early concerns about his fit and raising questions about his future role if his output does not improve.
The Maple Leafs have been helped by strong performances from their core players and surprising contributions from newcomers like Anthony Stolarz and Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
However, Robertson, Holmberg, and Domi's disappointing showings point to areas where the Leafs could improve or make adjustments, especially if they aim to challenge for the division against a strong Florida Panthers team.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 17 | 237 ANSWERS These three players need to do more for the Maple Leafs Do you think Max Domi fits the Toronto Maple Leafs well? | ||
| Yes | 167 | 70.5 % |
| No | 70 | 29.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
