Can the Leafs make it two in a row?
Considering all the injuries, it feels like a tall task, but we’ll see what Craig Berube’s depleted bunch can bring to the table against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Scott Laughton will make his return, so that’s good.
To kick off the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take, we discussed Tuesday night’s OT win before transitioning into a conversation about who the Leafs team MVP is at the quarter-mark of the season. Unsurprisingly, we both agreed that it was John Tavares. The 35-year-old has had an incredible start to the season. Furthermore, he demonstrated unbelievable determination and fight in the sequence that led to Nylander’s nasty winner against the Blues.
After that, we began to preview Toronto’s final home game before they head on the road for 6 straight games. Three weeks ago, on the night Tavares potted No. 500, the Blue Jackets thoroughly embarrassed the Leafs 6-3. They’re a fast team that plays with pace. This will be a difficult matchup for the undermanned Leafs. Joseph Woll will get the call. He’s been superb in his two outings to kick off his 2025-26 campaign. As mentioned, Laughton will draw in for Blais. Also, Calle Jarnkrok will get a look on the top line with Nylander and Tavares.
Meantime, I had a chance to do a 1-on-1 with Nick Robertson at Leafs practice on Wednesday. He’ll start on a line with Max Domi and Bobby McMann. My interaction with Robertson was a lot of fun. He was very direct and candid with his hot start, the team’s struggles, and what he ultimately wants long-term. We even talked about the Scratch and Score phenomenon, and also handicapped the chances of the Robertson brothers starting a podcast together one day.
Then, former NHLer turned top-flight analyst Ray Ferraro dropped by. As per usual, he offered up some phenomenal insight. Firstly, he weighed in on the Leafs – as a whole – through 20 games. We talked about the standings a bit, too. Over and above all that, he dished on Tavares’ brilliance, Nylander’s weird start, Auston Matthews’ status moving forward, and what the Leafs need to do to get back on track.
To wrap, we touched on some of the injury news. It doesn’t sound like it’s anything serious for Matthew Knies, although he won’t play against Columbus. Max Domi had some dental work done after the St. Louis game, but he’s good to go. Matthews looks like he’s inching closer, too, which is obviously tremendous news.
At any rate, make a note to join us for the Friday edition of Leafs Morning Take as we recap Leafs/Blue Jackets. Also, we’ll look ahead to Saturday night’s tilt in Montreal. Speaking of which, former Leaf and Habs D Gary Leeman will stop by the show.
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