#team-depth

#team-depth

The Toronto Maple Leafs turned in their most impressive performance of the season Tuesday night, blanking the New Jersey Devils 4-0 despite being without Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Chris Tanev, and Dakota Joshua. Facing a talented Devils team, the Leafs needed a full 60-minute effort from every player on the bench, and that is exactly what they delivered. Many expected New Jersey's high-powered offence to overwhelm a depleted Toronto lineup.

William Nylander is day-to-day still, so we will see. He is doing better, but he is still day-to-day. He is out today. Auston Matthews will be a game-time decision (due to the injury from the blocked shot in Detroit). Chris Tanev has a lower-body injury. It is not the same injury as before. He is getting evaluated today, so we will have a better timeline tomorrow or later today.

"We all we got, we all we need" has been a rallying cry for the Patriots after wins this season. And after Tuesday's NFL trade deadline came and went, it looks as though New England's front office echoed a similar approach when it comes to targeting outside help. New England opted to stand pat at the trade deadline, moving forward with the same roster that has jumped out to a 7-2 start this season.

The coaching staff looked to raise competition across the board this offseason. Every position was earned, and the added urgency made everyone better. This had the desired effect, which was further evidenced by the under-strength Commanders coming through their test against the Las Vegas Raiders pretty comfortably. Dan Quinn's resolve has passed over to his players. The injury complications aren't ideal, but everyone is ready to step up if, or when, their number is called.

Alex Austin's impressive performance during joint practices has shown his potential to secure a roster spot, significantly impacting the Patriots' secondary depth and future success.

The Oklahoma City Thunder's depth allows for flexibility in lineups, aiding both regular season performance and postseason strategies, as illustrated in Game 4 against the Timberwolves.

The running back class is probably the deepest class in the draft. I think you can get a really good player from Round 1 through 5.