Toronto Maple Leafs navigate roster dilemmas as Dakota Joshua struggles to find his footing
The Toronto Maple Leafs made significant moves this offseason, focusing on depth forward acquisitions to enhance their roster. The excitement began with the controversial sign-and-trade that sent star Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Nicolas Roy. Shortly after, they added Matias Maccelli through a deal with Utah.
However, the most notable addition came in mid-July when the Maple Leafs traded for gritty winger Dakota Joshua from the Vancouver Canucks. Fans were eager to see Joshua in action, drawn to his reputation as a tough, physical player capable of contributing offensively. His previous experience under coach Craig Berube only fueled expectations that he would hit the ground running in Toronto.
Joshua’s Training Camp Struggles
Despite the initial enthusiasm, Joshua’s performance during training camp has raised concerns. Team reporter Joshua Kloke of The Athletic noted that the 2014 fifth-round pick has not made the expected impact in practices and preseason games. “One of the Leafs’ few offseason acquisitions has flown too far under the radar through training camp. Practices and preseason will go by without him making an evident impact,” Kloke observed.
While the Maple Leafs may appreciate a player who can provide defensive stability and eat up ice time, they also need offensive production. Last season, Joshua netted 18 goals in 63 games, a promising statistic that has yet to translate in his new environment. Kloke further remarked that Joshua could be a player who takes time to adjust, emphasizing the need for fans to keep an eye on his progress as the season approaches.
At 29 years old, Joshua still has three years left on the four-year, $13.25 million extension he signed with the Canucks in 2024. This long-term investment means the Maple Leafs will hope to see a turnaround soon.
Roster Decisions Looming
With an abundance of NHL-capable forwards in the organization, the Maple Leafs face tough choices as they finalize their roster. Dakota Joshua appears likely to secure a spot on the opening night lineup, but others, including Nick Robertson, David Kampf, and Calle Jarnkrok, find themselves at the center of trade discussions.
General manager Brad Treliving is keen on recouping some draft capital, and it seems improbable that all three players will remain with the team as the season draws near. The Maple Leafs’ management will need to balance their desire for depth with the reality of the roster’s construction, making for an intriguing few days ahead as the puck is set to drop.
In a landscape filled with roster uncertainties, the Maple Leafs must navigate these complexities while hoping that Joshua can find his offensive rhythm before the season officially begins. As the team heads into the regular season, all eyes will be on how these decisions unfold and how Joshua develops in his new role.
