Maple Leafs Facing Real Potential for Disappointment Amid Moment of Realization

After another disappointing exit from the post-season, the Toronto Maple Leafs decided a summer of change was necessary, so they decided to address their forward corps, which now looks completely transformed from what we last saw in May.

While a division title is still possible, the Leafs are going to have to fend off the likes of Florida and Tampa Bay. Additionally, all of the other teams should pose real threats for playoff positions, making things even more difficult for the Leafs to navigate if they come out of the gates slow.

Montreal surprised the hockey world last year with their playoff berth during a rebuild, and with the additions of Noah Dobson and Zachary Bolduc combined with their young talent, they are primed for an even bigger season.

Ottawa is in a similar position, where they found a way into the post-season and even gave the Leafs a scare during their first round series. They didn't make too many changes this summer, but they should still be pressing for a top-3 spot in the division.

Buffalo and Detroit remain two of the more unpredictable teams in the division. The Sabres made some choice decisions this summer in an effort to play a different brand of hockey, whereas Detroit stayed the course. If either of their cores ever figure it out on a more consistent basis, they should pose real threats for at least a wild card spot.

Boston made several changes, similar to Toronto, in that they went for depth and grit. After finishing last in the division, it's hard to predict how they'll fare but they should be a lot better off with healthy versions of Hampus Lindholm and Charlie McAvoy returning.

The Panthers and the Lightning don't need any introductions since the former are the defending champions and the latter still have one of the best cores in hockey. The three of them had a fierce race for the division crown last year, which could be repeated again in 2025-26.

A slow start from the Leafs is possible with all the new faces blending into their lineup, which makes training camp that much more important for the coaching staff to find the right combinations that work, in an effort to avoid any bumps to start the year.