The Toronto Maple Leafs are navigating a series of challenges, from injuries to inconsistent defensive play, as the season progresses. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding key players:

Easton Cowan: After making his NHL debut against the Red Wings, Cowan has impressed with his relentless puck battles and work ethic. Despite his smaller size, he's winning battles and fitting in well with the team's mindset, particularly on the top line. While consistent top-line production might be a question mark, his effort in the dirty areas has been a positive.

Matthew Knies: Knies experienced a hot start to the 2025-26 season but then hit a dry patch. However, he has since bolstered the Leafs' attack, contributing important goals and a physical presence. During the team's four-game point streak, Knies tallied four goals on just ten shots and added two assists. His size and presence in front of the net have been a significant factor in the Maple Leafs' power play resurgence. Lately, it was reported that Knies was feeling better, after remaining a game-time decision.

Jake McCabe: McCabe has been facing struggles, with coach Craig Berube emphasizing the importance of getting back to his strengths. Berube noted that every player goes through tough stretches and that McCabe needs to be more direct with the puck. The coach highlighted McCabe's role as a shutdown defenseman and penalty killer, advising him to focus on those core aspects of his game. McCabe himself acknowledged that the recent practice was helpful in addressing these issues. In a recent game against the Wild, McCabe struggled with puck play and decision-making, contributing to the team's defensive woes.

Bobby McMann: McMann's speed and scoring ability have been evident in recent games. During the Maple Leafs' four-game point streak, he scored three goals, added an assist, and recorded sixteen shots on net. He has shown a knack for driving to the net and forechecking aggressively. McMann has played a prominent role, delivering important goals and a physical presence while helping fill the void left by the absences of key players.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson (OEL): The Maple Leafs are currently dealing with defensive issues, compounded by Ekman-Larsson's lower-body injury, which is expected to sideline him for some time. OEL's absence further strains a defensive corps already missing key players. During the game against Minnesota, both McCabe and OEL were not at their best.

The Maple Leafs' defensive struggles have been a concern, with the team allowing five or more goals in three of their last four losses. Fatigue appears to be a contributing factor to the recent defensive regression. With injuries mounting and defensive play faltering, the Maple Leafs may need to explore replacement options or potentially consider becoming sellers if the season's trajectory doesn't improve.