"Now, we're going to bring it together by looking ahead at the training camp battles ahead. While most of the roster is set, there will be plenty of internal jockeying for position and some decisions to be made. The Leafs don't technically need to trade anyone. They have 14 forwards making at least $1.35M and can afford to roster all of them, plus a seventh defenseman, while still accruing cap space for the trade deadline in the process."
"William Nylander In the last three seasons, Nylander has scored, 40, 40 and 45 goals. Last season, he was second in the league in goals and doesn't seem to be getting enough respect for this feat. The only question with Nylander is whether Craig Berube loads him up on the top line with Matthews or has him drive the "second" line offensively, as he has been the past few years."
"Matthew Knies Following a breakout year and a big contract extension, it seems quite likely that Knies will continue to play alongside Matthews. I suppose, in theory, one could argue that if they move Nylander to the top line, maybe they'd consider Knies on the second line for some offensive balance. Either way, he's a sure-fire top-six forward and top unit power-play lock."
The Toronto Maple Leafs enter training camp with a largely settled roster but meaningful internal competition for roles and minutes. The club can carry 14 forwards earning at least $1.35M and still add a seventh defenseman while preserving cap flexibility for the trade deadline. Auston Matthews is established as the 1C. William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and John Tavares are projected to occupy top-six and power-play responsibilities, while Nic Roy is seen as a matchup 3C with defensive-zone and transition duties. Several depth players will compete for fourth-line, extra forward, and special-teams assignments. Line deployment choices will shape offensive balance.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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