Maple Leafs to face an all-or-nothing season, according to pundit

The Toronto Maple Leafs are preparing for a 2025-26 season that will be decisive, at least according to an analysis by a pundit.

ESPN host Arda Ocal explained that this upcoming campaign will be an all-or-nothing for the Leafs, pointing out that only winning the Stanley Cup can be considered a success for Toronto.

"There still are some great pieces on that team; obviously, they’re still a playoff-contending team. But, they’re in a situation now that it’s Cup or bust," Ocal said on "The Game Plan."

Last season, the Maple Leafs disappointed again in the playoffs, after being eliminated by the Florida Panthers in the second round. Furthermore, during the offseason, Toronto lost Mitch Marner, its points leader, which is why the team could have even more difficulties shining.

"The expectations are still sky high. It’s a hockey-starved market, a championship-starved market, and it is one where the expectation will always remain. And, it is exacerbated by the fact that they just can’t find playoff success, but that Atlantic Division is stacked," added Ocal.

That said, Ocal considers that there is a player who could become a key piece of the team this upcoming season. Matthew Knies, a young winger, recently signed a six-year contract extension, and seemed up for the challenge during the recent playoff run, tallying five goals and two assists in 13 games.

Although he is not seen as the direct replacement for Marner, Knies could benefit from the opportunity that some offensive players will receive, taking into account that GM Brad Treliving used the money from Marner's departure to reinforce other areas.

The ESPN pundit finished by assuring that Toronto will continue to receive strong pressure and a wave of criticism until it wins the Stanley Cup.