The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a critical juncture in their 2025-26 season, as mounting losses and inconsistent play threaten to derail their playoff aspirations. After a promising road trip, the team returned to Scotiabank Arena hoping to solidify their position in the congested Eastern Conference playoff race, but instead, they suffered a string of disappointing defeats.
As of January 25, 2026, the Maple Leafs have a record of 24 wins, 19 losses, and 9 overtime losses. This places them seventh in the Atlantic Division and 11th in the Eastern Conference, five points below the playoff cutline. With 52 games played, the team's .548 points percentage is a cause for concern, especially considering their struggles on home ice. The team has a game scheduled against the Buffalo Sabres for January 27, 2026.
The team's recent struggles have been marked by several key issues. A lack of confidence, particularly at home, has been palpable. Coach Craig Berube, when questioned about how the team can regain confidence, stated, "Confidence comes from just hard work. Confidence comes from just playing the system, being direct. Confidence comes from work and compete".
Offensively, the Maple Leafs have been inconsistent. While Auston Matthews continues to be a dominant force, leading the team with 25 goals, the team's overall offensive output has been lacking. The power play, in particular, has been a significant area of concern, ranking 25th in the NHL with a 16.8% success rate. Over the last 10 games, the Leafs are 5/24 on the power play, a mediocre 20.8%. The absence of Mitch Marner, who was a key contributor on the power play, has been felt, and the team has yet to find a suitable replacement.
Defensively, the Maple Leafs have also faced challenges. They have allowed 176 goals against, which is 29th in the league. Goaltending has been inconsistent, with both Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz struggling to maintain consistently high save percentages. Woll has an 11-6-4 record with a 2.86 GAA and a .911 save percentage. Stolarz, upon returning from an injury, stopped 25 of 30 shots in a 6-3 loss to the Golden Knights.
The Maple Leafs' upcoming schedule includes a game against the Buffalo Sabres on January 27, followed by a series of road games against Western Conference opponents. These games will be crucial in determining whether the team can turn their season around and secure a playoff spot.
To get back on track, the Maple Leafs need to address their issues with confidence, defensive execution, and power play effectiveness. As Berube emphasized, it will take a collective effort from the entire team to overcome these challenges and regain their winning form. The team needs to stick together and continue to be positive.
