Core players and new goaltending define success

Kreider Pursuit

The Maple Leafs should aggressively pursue forward Chris Kreider after his contract termination, as his physicality and postseason experience fill a critical need in the top nine.

Tavares' Outlook

While captain John Tavares believes the offseason additions position the team as championship contenders, the roster must prove its legitimacy before reaching that status.

Season Expectations

The team's success hinges on core players returning to top form and the new goaltender providing an edge that previous netminders lacked during high-stakes games.