"Through 21 games, the Toronto Maple Leafs are in a drastically different position than they were a year ago. Toronto has assembled a 9-9-3 record through 21 games, sitting second-last in the Atlantic Division. At the same point last year, despite myriad injuries, the Maple Leafs were off to a 13-6-2 start, en route to capturing the first seed in the division. What a difference a year can make."
"Sammy Blais: A favourite of Craig Berube, Blais was brought into inject some toughness and some secondary scoring. Blais has recorded a goal and three points in seven games, but he hasn't forced his way into a lineup facing several injuries either. It'll be curious to see what his role turns into, as the Leafs eventually return to full strength. C"
"Brandon Carlo: Carlo's role is being litigated on an almost daily basis, and it's been a tough start to the season for the veteran defenceman. You've heard ad nauseam that Carlo was traded for Fraser Minten and a 2026 first-round pick with top-five protection. We can't evaluate him retroactively based on the trade package, that's entirely unfair, but it's become a talking point among the fan base."
Through 21 games the Toronto Maple Leafs carry a 9-9-3 record, positioned second-last in the Atlantic Division, contrasting with last season's 13-6-2 start. First-quarter grades reflect preseason expectations and injury context. Sammy Blais earns a C after one goal and three points in seven games and limited lineup impact. Brandon Carlo receives a D amid struggles defending the rush, allowing net-front access and a 45 percent expected-goals share at 5-on-5. Easton Cowan emerges as a bright spot, earning a roster spot and appearing among the team's top 12 forwards after initial AHL reassignment.
Read at TheLeafsNation
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