Maple Leafs Hope to End Losing Streak on Upcoming Road Trip
The Toronto Maple Leafs are hitting the road, hoping to turn their season around after a rough stretch. The team, which has lost six of its last nine games—including three straight in regulation—heads west for a four-game road trip starting Saturday against the Edmonton Oilers. The Leafs have been struggling offensively, getting outscored 23-7 in those six losses.
Despite their recent home struggles, Toronto has been solid on the road, going 6-2-0 in its last eight away games. Head coach Craig Berube sees this trip as a chance for the team to regroup and bond, especially with key players like John Tavares, Matthew Knies, Anthony Stolarz, and Jani Hakanpää potentially returning from injury.
Leafs Focused on Adding a Center, Not Brandon Saad
While the Leafs have been linked to recently waived forward Brandon Saad, reports suggest they may not pursue him aggressively. Despite Saad’s past connection with Berube in St. Louis, his performance this season (7 goals, 9 assists in 43 games) hasn’t made him a must-have addition. Instead, Toronto’s priority remains strengthening the center position and adding defensive depth before the trade deadline.
Urgency Needed as Leafs Slip in Standings
Toronto’s recent slump has caused them to drop to second place in the Atlantic Division, now trailing the Florida Panthers. The team has been generating scoring chances but failing to convert, a trend that needs to change quickly.
Goaltender Joseph Woll, who has seen a dip in performance with an .885 save percentage over his last seven starts, will need to step up in Stolarz’s absence. Meanwhile, key offensive players like Mitch Marner and Max Domi will be expected to contribute more consistently.
Looking Ahead
The Leafs’ road trip includes stops in Calgary, Seattle, and Vancouver before the team breaks for the 4 Nations Face-Off. With several lengthy road stretches ahead, this trip could set the tone for the rest of the season. If Toronto can regain its scoring touch and tighten up defensively, they have a chance to climb back into a strong playoff position.
