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Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Artur Akhtyamov (Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images)

Maple Leafs News & Rumours: Akhtyamov, Cowan & Gillis GM Talks

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers | By The Old Prof | Last updated Apr 10, 2026 1:05 PM ET

Last night’s loss felt like a season slipping away in real time. The Toronto Maple Leafs dropped a 5-3 decision to the New York Islanders, but the scoreline flatters them. This was a lopsided contest from the jump. Toronto was outworked, outshot, and, for long stretches, outmatched. When a team gives up that kind of early push, especially with a new, young goalie in the crease, it’s not just about one bad night—it’s a reflection of where things are.

With the loss, the Maple Leafs (32-33-14) have now dropped four straight and are officially out of the playoff picture. A 4-0 loss to the Washington Capitals on Wednesday was just as telling: the group has run out of runway. Goals from Steven Lorentz, Easton Cowan, and Morgan Rielly were nice, but they didn’t change the story. The team is now playing out the string—and maybe auditioning for what comes next.

Item One: Akhtyamov Passes the First Test

There’s no polite way to say it: Artur Akhtyamov was thrown to the wolves. In his first NHL start (and just his second NHL appearance), the Maple Leafs allowed 24 shots in the first period and 36 through two. That’s the kind of debut that becomes about survival.

And yet, the youngster held up. Akhtyamov stopped 39 shots, including 22 in the opening frame alone. The Islanders, energized by new head coach Pete DeBoer, came in waves, and the Maple Leafs had no answer. But their rookie goalie did. Calm, composed, and competitive, he gave his team a chance when they didn’t deserve one.

After the game, Akhtyamov kept it simple and honest: “It feels unbelievable. It was my first game. I was so excited. I think it was a good experience for me. Thank you, coaching staff, for this opportunity.” That’s a great attitude. With Anthony Stolarz sidelined, he’ll stick around behind Joseph Woll, and if this was any indication, he won’t be fazed by the moment.

Item Two: Cowan Gives the Maple Leafs Something to Build On

If you’re looking for a silver lining, Easton Cowan is doing his best to provide one. He scored again in this loss and now has points in four of his last five games (two goals, three assists). That’s not empty production either. He’s getting involved in the power play, shooting the puck, and even mixing it up physically.

Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Easton Cowan controls the puck against New York Rangers center Noah Laba (Brad Penner-Imagn Images)

Seven shots, five hits, and a growing presence in key situations tell you this isn’t just a late-season blip. This is a player trying to show he belongs. And frankly, he does.

Is he a top-six forward next season? Why not? More likely, he starts as a middle-six piece who can move up when needed. But what matters right now is this: Cowan is making management take notice. In a lost season, he’s a positive sign.

Item Three: Maple Leafs Eye Experience in the Front Office

Off the ice, the Maple Leafs are already looking ahead—and one intriguing name is emerging. Mike Gillis is reportedly on Toronto’s radar for a front office role, with Chris Johnston noting that discussions have already taken place and another meeting with MLSE CEO Keith Pelley could be coming soon.

There’s logic here. Gillis has a history with Pelley and a track record from his time with the Vancouver Canucks, where he built a contender with a clear identity.

VANCOUVER, CANADA – JANUARY 19: Vancouver Canucks General Manager Mike Gillis stands in front of the bench during their season-opening NHL game against the Anaheim Ducks at Rogers Arena January 19, 2013 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

If the Maple Leafs are serious about changing direction—not just tweaking around the edges—this kind of hire would signal it. Gillis has never been afraid to think differently, and right now, that might be exactly what this organization needs.

What’s Next for the Maple Leafs?

Now the focus shifts. The playoffs are out of reach, so the final games aren’t about standings—they’re about evaluation. Who competes? Who fits? Who doesn’t? Players like Cowan are getting real chances, and management is watching closely.

Beyond that, the bigger questions loom. What does the roster look like next season? Does the team double down on its core, or does it finally make a meaningful change? And what kind of front office structure will guide those decisions? For now, it’s about finishing with some pride. But make no mistake—the real work for the Maple Leafs is just beginning.