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Insider Elliotte Friedman Drops Some Concerning News Regarding The Toronto Maple Leafs Dressing Room

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Samer Dagher
January 20, 2024 (12:34)

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Photo credit: The Athletic

In the most recent 32 Thoughts Podcast, insider Elliotte Friedman dropped some concerning news regarding the Toronto Maple Leafs dressing room.

The Toronto Maple Leafs Are In Deep Trouble This Season

The Toronto Maple Leafs showed signs of a potential turnaround by securing a 4-3 victory over the Calgary Flames, ending their four-game losing streak.

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However, according to insider Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast, there's a new perspective emerging about the Leafs aspirations for this season.

Friedman (32TP): "I think Toronto is thinking bigger picture, I don't think this is about this year anymore, I think they're thinking about where they are going. I really wonder if deep down, that as an organization they're saying, we are not good enough to win this year we are re-setting and reshaping our roster and we're going to do that""

Friedman suggests that the Maple Leafs may be shifting their focus away from a strong push for the Stanley Cup this season. Instead, they are reportedly considering the bigger picture and the future in Toronto. The organization might be acknowledging that, deep down, they don't see themselves as strong contenders to win the championship this year. This mindset could lead to a strategic reset and reshaping of the roster with an eye on future seasons.

"I think they wanted to know what his (Nylander) number was going to be and if it was going to get done because I think Toronto is thinking bigger picture. I don't think this is about this year anymore. The more I think about the Nylander negotiation and getting him signed, it was about what does our structure look like so we can start to rebuild their roster. I think before they committed to signing Nylander they went every where in the league and said is there a defenceman making Nylander's money or close to it that we can replace him with and those players they're not available"

Despite being labeled as Stanley Cup favorites at various points this season, Toronto faced challenges, particularly with goaltender Ilya Samsonov struggling and difficulties in maintaining leads. As of now, the Maple Leafs hold the third spot in the Atlantic division with a comfortable position in the postseason, boasting a record of 22-13-8 and a total of 52 points.

The upcoming trade deadline may provide more insight into the Leafs' strategy. General Manager Brad Treliving's approach, whether it's a win-now mentality or a more cautious outlook, will become clearer in the decisions made leading up to the deadline.

The consideration of potential sacrifices in terms of draft capital or prospects remains uncertain, and the recent rumblings in Toronto may be reflective of these strategic evaluations.

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POLL
20 JANVIER \| 292 ANSWERS Insider Elliotte Friedman Drops Some Concerning News Regarding The Toronto Maple Leafs Dressing Room Do you think the Maple Leafs should be all in this year?
Yes, the core is in their prime	106	36.3 %
Balanced approach	64	21.9 %
No, they should sell their expiring deals	122	41.8 %
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