"Last season saw the Leafs barely give up any quality chances, box out the opposition in tight, and thus make it easier for their netminders to track the puck and make the stop. This season is a different story so far, as they have given up the second-most goals in the NHL with 60 at the time of filing and no indication that the bleeding will stop anytime soon."
"The Leafs are allowing far too many rush chances of high quality. Their net-front presence has been vastly weaker than it was the year prior, and the decision-making with the puck is resulting in them getting hemmed in for far longer than they should. It feels as though the players are gung-ho to get back on the offensive side of the puck and abandon their defensive structure."
Toronto Maple Leafs defensive play has declined sharply from last season, resulting in a high rate of goals against and quality rush chances. Net-front presence is weaker and puck decision-making leads to prolonged defensive zone pressure. Players appear eager to transition to offense and abandon structure, reversing a previously strong system that helped win the division and reach Game 7 of the second round. The roster remains largely unchanged and defensive personnel returned intact, making the collapse puzzling. The primary problem appears to be a philosophical shift in how the team approaches defense, compounded by recent behind-the-bench changes.
Read at TheLeafsNation
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