Projected New Line Combinations for the Maple Leafs Revealed and There Are Some Surprises

With Daily Faceoff releasing their line combo projections for the Maple Leafs, fans are getting their first real look at potential line combinations for both new acquisitions and long-standing Leafs.

One of the most surprising notes is Matias Maccelli being listed as the first-line right winger. On paper, the move makes sense. Mitch Marner's departure left a hole in the playmaking department, particularly alongside Auston Matthews.

Maccelli, acquired in the offseason, is viewed as a possible replacement and could slot naturally into that role. Still, there are questions. Utah healthy-scratched Maccelli at times last season, raising doubts about his readiness to step into such a demanding position.

Daily Faceoff appears confident he can rise to the challenge, but whether Maccelli can help the Leafs' top line reclaim its past dominance is far from certain.

This projection also has ripple effects down the roster. William Nylander, whom many expected to be elevated to the top line, is held on the second line, where he has played much of his career. While Nylander has thrived in that spot before, some will wonder if limiting his minutes with Matthews is the best use of his offensive talent in Marner's absence.

Max Domi, whom some believed would land the top line RW job next to Matthews if it didn't go to Nylander, lands next to Tavares and Nylander on the 2nd line in perhaps the most surprising line combo.

One notable omission is Nick Robertson. Despite signing a new contract as a restricted free agent, he is left out of Daily Faceoff's projected lineup entirely. That suggests he will need to battle for a roster spot in training camp, rather than being guaranteed a place in the rotation.

The Dakota Joshua, Nicolas Roy, Bobby McMann line has the potential to go very, very hard. They have the perfect blend of tenacity, offensive ability, and defensive acumen. I don't mind that one bit.

All things considered, this could be one of the most unpredictable Leafs lineups in recent memory. With multiple new pieces and several question marks still hanging, Toronto may be heading into the 2025-26 season with more uncertainty than stability.