What Happened
Sportsnet published an early-season evaluation of the Toronto Maple Leafs on October 7, 2026, after the team opened 2-2-0. The review pointed to Auston Matthews looking like a forceful version of himself, with his line controlling play and generating chances. It also highlighted Jack Roslovic's three points and 10 shots, plus Gavin McKenna's skilled play against Nashville, while noting the roster has seen as much turnover as any in the NHL.
Key Details
- Maple Leafs opened the season with a 2-2-0 record through four games.
- Matthews' line with Kirill Marchenko and Jack Roslovic ranked third in expected goals percentage among units with at least 20 minutes together, per MoneyPuck.
- Roslovic has three points and 10 shots in four games.
- Sportsnet called Roslovic a clear upgrade on players typically used outside Toronto's big names.
- Gavin McKenna impressed against Nashville with small, skilled plays that kept pucks moving to dangerous areas.
- Sportsnet noted the Leafs have seen as much roster turnover as any NHL team.
What It Means
Four games is a small sample, and Sportsnet acknowledged it can be hard to separate randomness from truth this early. Still, Matthews driving play and new forwards like Roslovic and McKenna contributing offer early optimism for a Toronto group that underwent significant roster turnover. Sportsnet also flagged concerns, including Roslovic's hope passes and his history of slowing down as games get harder.