Maple Leafs’ Line Combos: What’s Working What Needs Improved

As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for the playoffs, head coach Craig Berube has seemingly solidified his top-six forward combinations, provided the team stays healthy. These lines have performed well and could prove crucial when the games count. However, some areas in the bottom six still require attention before the postseason begins. Last night’s 3-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings did show how the team could fare in playoff-type situations.

Maple Leafs Top-Six Line Combinations

The Maple Leafs lines seem most settled in the top-six forward group. The combination of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Matthew Knies has shown strong chemistry, with Matthews and Marner leading the charge offensively. This line provides a solid blend of skill and playmaking, which could be crucial when creating scoring opportunities in high-pressure situations.

Meanwhile, the second line of John Tavares, William Nylander, and Bobby McMann has been a pleasant surprise. McMann, in particular, has been a standout. He was arguably the most dangerous Maple Leafs player in the first two periods of last night’s game. His speed and physicality have made him a strong complement to Tavares and Nylander. With this line working so well, the Maple Leafs have the potential to have two strong scoring units. That will be key when facing the toughest teams in the league.

Maple Leafs Bottom-Six Struggles

While the top six appear to be in a good place, the bottom six remain a work in progress. The third line of Scott Laughton, Calle Jarnkrok, and Max Domi has struggled. Domi has often seemed alone, and Jarnkrok’s struggles since returning from injury hinder the line’s effectiveness. At times, it’s been tough to see the line generate sustained offensive pressure or contribute significantly at 5-on-5.

The fourth line of David Kampf, Steven Lorentz, and Pontus Holmberg has also been ineffective. This line failed to generate any significant shot attempts, scoring chances, or expected goals, which could be a concern heading into the playoffs. In the postseason, depth scoring often decides games. Holmberg, in particular, had minimal impact on last night’s game, with only one shot attempt and one scoring chance to his name.

Potential Adjustments: Robertson and Trades

One notable absence was Nicholas Robertson, a healthy scratch in this game. His absence was felt, particularly on the third line. That’s where Domi seemed isolated. A potential pairing of Robertson and Domi could provide better puck possession and zone time, even if they don’t generate a ton of scoring without McMann. Robertson’s speed and offensive instincts could complement Domi’s playmaking, and together, they might form a line that can at least create some offensive zone pressure.

Another option for improving the bottom six could be Max Pacioretty, provided he’s healthy. Pacioretty offers size, physicality, and offensive instincts that could be a big asset in front of the net. While he might struggle to keep up with the speed of Domi and Robertson, his ability to create scoring chances in tight areas and his net-front presence could prove valuable in the postseason. If Pacioretty’s not ready to go, Pontus Holmberg might be a reasonable fill-in on the third line, providing defensive stability and some added depth.