TORONTO — With only a dozen games remaining in the season, a key question for the Toronto Maple Leafs is how concerned should they be about not yet establishing the optimal configuration for their forward lines?
Head coach Craig Berube acknowledged the ongoing adjustments when asked about settling on a third line, stating, “It`s a little bit of a battle still.”
The top line, featuring Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Matthew Knies, has been a consistent presence since the beginning of training camp. This unit has demonstrated strong performance, outscoring opponents 27-22 throughout the season.
Berube`s preference for working with forward pairings and his apparent reluctance to distribute his core four players across three lines suggests that John Tavares and William Nylander are likely to start Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs together. Despite being outshot 269-250 in 5-on-5 situations with this pair on the ice, their scoring efficiency has resulted in a 29-17 goal advantage over their opponents.
Currently, Berube is experimenting with a third line pairing of Max Domi and Nick Robertson. Both players are offensively gifted and agile, but raise defensive concerns due to their smaller stature.
Berube commented on their performance, “They’ve scored for us, providing valuable secondary scoring. I believe Max’s game has improved significantly, and there`s still potential for further growth.”
Explaining his approach to line construction, Berube said, “I tend to think in terms of pairs more than complete lines. It`s something I’ve always done. Occasionally, we need to make changes, and we do adjust by moving wingers around.”
Stats indicate that Domi and Robertson have been on the ice for a 16-14 scoring advantage for the Leafs. This margin slightly improves to 10-7 when they are joined by the fast-skating Bobby McMann.
However, recently Berube has utilized McMann’s strong forechecking abilities to inject energy into the Tavares-Nylander line.
Berube noted, “He’s been a good fit there. He has played with those guys before, and they have been successful together.”
In contrast, Pontus Holmberg has not shown the same level of chemistry with Domi and Robertson.
Furthermore, questions arise regarding Scott Laughton’s role. Acquired with the expectation of playing in the top nine forwards, he has instead been utilized for limited minutes on the fourth line. Another question is whether Max Pacioretty, currently on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) due to salary cap constraints, could become a surprise option for the playoffs, considering his positive contributions on the second line earlier in the season.
