Maple Leafs' Connor Dewar Very Noticeable Thus Far During Conditioning Stint with Marlies

Connor Dewar was loaned to the Toronto Marlies alongside Jani Hakanpaa this week, allowing both players to gain some momentum and get up to speed following their injuries that kept them out at the start of training camp and to kick off the season.

Dewar is already making strides and is looking like he is ready to bump someone off of the current roster, scoring a beautiful breakaway goal in his first game with the Marlies.

As shared by Kyle Cushman on X:

Dewar has yet to suit up for the Maple Leafs this season after shoulder surgery in the offseason delayed his return to action. This setback was particularly challenging for Dewar, as he is already considered a fringe player for the Leafs, especially after the emergence of players like Max Pacioretty and Steven Lorentz. Dewar played in 17 games for the blue and white in the 2023-24 season, registering 5 points after being traded from the Minnesota Wild.

The key question now is where Dewar and Hakanpaa will fit into the lineup once their conditioning stint concludes, especially with the Maple Leafs operating near the salary cap, even after trading Timothy Liljegren to the San Jose Sharks.

When the Leafs are able to integrate both players back into the mix, they will be welcomed with open arms. Both Dewar and Hakanpaa are expected to make significant contributions in the lower half of the lineup and on the penalty kill, as they are known for their defensive responsibility and both fit the mold of players that coach Craig Berube values.