The Toronto Maple Leafs Dilemma at this Crucial Position
The Toronto Maple Leafs face a dilemma regarding the second-line centre position. While John Tavares has been filling that role, he’s not precisely the best option. Given the Leafs limited cap space and options on the market, moving Mitch Marner and William Nylander could provide a solution to the dilemma.
Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube hasn’t even started training camp, and he’s already facing a crucial decision.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have a gaping need for a second-line centre. Now, you might be thinking that John Tavares has been the club’s second-line centre for the past six seasons.
Yes, he’s played in that role. But frankly speaking, he’s not quite what the Toronto Maple Leafs need at the position. Tavares is going through the same transition that Steven Stamkos did in Tampa. As such, Tavares would be better suited for the third-line centre role or perhaps moving to the wing.
If that’s the case, then who slots in behind Auston Matthews on the second line?
I’ve written in the past about how the Leafs urgently need a second-line centre. However, these players don’t come by too often. When they’re available, they can cost an arm and a leg. Plus, let’s be real here: the Leafs don’t have the prospects, draft picks, or cap space to swing a deal for someone like, say, Elias Petterson or Brock Nelson (on the low end).
So, what’s the answer to the dilemma? The answer could very well be right in front of Berube’s nose.
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