With training camp around the corner, the Toronto Maple Leafs are heading into the 2025-26 season with a number of new faces and a different mindset. It’s a fresh start after losing a core piece in Mitch Marner, but they have done a decent job to add players that are competitive and play with a hard-working mindset.
As they gear up for the season, players are coming in looking to make their mark or even looking to put last season behind them and look ahead to succeed. Here are six players to keep an eye on heading into training camp.
Auston Matthews
Normally, we know what to expect when it comes to Auston Matthews. The two- time, 60- goal scorer is an elite offensive talent as he has shown over the years. However, last season was a down year offensively as he had 33 goals and 78 points– the lowest goal total of his career. Although he was dealing with an injury that affected him since last training camp, but he’s ready for camp.
Would it be nice for Matthews to hit 60 goals again? Absolutely, he’s one the most dangerous goal scorers in the league. But even if he doesn’t hit that mark and bounces back with a 50-goal season, that alone would be a win itself considering the struggles he faced last season. With his health a big concern all last season and in the post season where he didn’t seem himself at times, a healthy Matthews heading into camp is something that everyone wants to see. With that comes a lot of goals and a lot of big moments.
Matthew Knies
It was a sophomore season to remember for Matthew Knies putting up 29 goals and 58 points, falling short of the 30-goal and 60-point mark. That would’ve been impressive to see Knies hit those milestones, but he’ll be on a mission and is going to take another big step this season. With the top line left wing spot his, his power forward game and clutch performances is something that is benefitting the Maple Leafs and head coach Craig Berube.
Related: 3 Burning Questions Around Mitch Marner’s Departure
Knies has transformed into a monster offensively with his physical play and dominance in the middle of the ice. Per NHL EDGE, 81 of his 152 shots came in the home…
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