Dakota Joshua Reintroduces Himself to Leafs Nation, Tells Fans What to Expect This Season
Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Dakota Joshua, the newest member of the Maple Leafs, has revealed what type of impact he can have in Toronto and how fans can expect him to play.
To say that the Maple Leafs have undergone a bit of a transformation this season might be the understatement of the century. Losing a player like Mitch Marner and then ultimately changing the identity of your team with added depth that plays a much different game is certainly a risky play. However, the organization opted to change what wasn't working, and hopefully the team will be better for it as a whole.
One of the newly-acquired players in Toronto is former Maple Leafs draft pick Dakota Joshua, who recently revealed his plans to wear the jersey number of a former Leafs legend in his return to the Leafs.
While some are fully aware of what Joshua brings to the table, others are still wondering what they can expect from him. During an appearance on Leafs Morning Take with Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill on Wednesday, Joshua revealed exactly what Leafs Nation can expect from him this season and moving forward.
"I like to think that I can do a little bit of everything. A big part of my game is getting in on the forecheck and being disruptive, but also providing a physical presence. And then underrated -- I believe in myself that I can score too, so I feel like I add a little bit of everything. Someone who can play up and down the lineup and in all situations, so whatever Leafs Nation needs, I feel like I can provide."
The jury is still out on where in the lineup Joshua will play, but he is, as he mentioned, a versatile player who can do plenty of things in different areas of the ice.
His 18 goals a couple of years back point to his ability to contribute on offense. His hard-nosed style and forechecking ability can really help to wear the opposition down. He also happens to be a good penalty killer.
Look for Joshua to show up to training camp motivated and ready to go after a down year in 2024-25, which saw him briefly step away from the game while he endured a battle with testicular cancer.
Leafs Nation is behind you, Dakota -- and with your health scare now behind you, we're all rooting for you and are looking forward to seeing what you can bring to the table throughout training camp and when the season begins in October.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 30 | 650 ANSWERS Dakota Joshua Reintroduces Himself to Leafs Nation, Tells Fans What to Expect This Season Do you see Dakota Joshua as a top-6 player or a bottom-6 player for the Leafs? | ||
| Top 6 | 158 | 24.3 % |
| Bottom 6 | 492 | 75.7 % |
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