Maple Leafs Season Report Cards: Grading Players After Disappointing 2025-26
The Toronto Maple Leafs' 2025-26 NHL season concluded with a whimper, as the team finished 28th in the 32-team league, missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade. With the summer break underway, it's time to hand out final report cards for the players and coaching staff, evaluating their contributions and looking ahead to what changes might be necessary.
Coaching and Management
Coach Craig Berube receives a grade of 3.5 out of 10, down from a mid-season mark of 5.5. Despite inheriting a flawed roster and dealing with injuries, Berube's inability to make effective adjustments throughout the season was glaring. His future with the team is uncertain, especially after such a disappointing finish, though his remaining contract might offer some protection.
Former general manager Brad Treliving was dismissed on March 30, a move that speaks volumes about his performance. He had previously earned a 5.5 in mid-season evaluations and would have likely received a failing grade had he remained in position.
Goaltenders
Anthony Stolarz posted a save percentage of .893 in 26 games, a significant drop from his league-leading .926 in the previous season. His ongoing injury concerns, including a recent groin strain, raise questions about his reliability. Grade: 5.5.
Joseph Woll struggled with consistency after missing the first six weeks for personal reasons. He managed only four wins in his final 21 games, with defensive lapses in front of him not helping his cause. Grade: 6.5.
Defensemen
Morgan Rielly had a tough season, on the ice for 78 goals against at five-on-five, the second-most in the NHL. His defensive positioning was often problematic, and a change of scenery might benefit both him and the team. Grade: 4.9.
Jake McCabe was the Leafs' best defenseman, leading the NHL with 190 blocked shots in 80 games. However, the team's overall struggles wore on him as the season progressed. Grade: 6.9.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson led Leafs defensemen in scoring with 39 points but committed 109 giveaways, highlighting defensive issues. Grade: 6.6.
Troy Stecher started strong after being claimed off waivers but couldn't maintain consistency. His effort was commendable, but he's likely to depart as an unrestricted free agent. Grade: 6.1.
Brandon Carlo failed to make a significant impact, going 134 games without a goal and lacking physicality. Grade: 5.4.
Simon Benoit called for more aggression but didn't deliver, recording 194 hits but little intimidation. Grade: 5.3.
Philippe Myers served as a depth player, averaging 14.5 minutes per game in 39 appearances, and could be easily replaced. Grade: 4.5.
Forwards
Matthew Knies set career highs with 43 assists and 66 points but scored only 23 goals, hampered by a knee injury. Grade: 6.9.
Auston Matthews had 53 points in 60 games before a knee injury ended his season. His production was inconsistent, and he faces questions about his future with the team. Grade: 6.5.
John Tavares was the only Leaf to play all 82 games, scoring 31 goals, but his defensive play needs improvement. Grade: 6.9.
William Nylander put up 79 points in 65 games but didn't fully buy into the coach's system, and his middle-finger salute to a camera was unprofessional. Grade: 7.4.
Max Domi's production dried up late in the season, with just five points after the Olympic break, and his defensive awareness remains a concern. Grade: 5.8.
Nick Robertson played in 78 games, scoring 16 goals, but his future with the Leafs is uncertain as trade rumors swirl. Grade: 5.8.
Steven Lorentz struggled with confidence, posting modest numbers for a fourth-line winger. Grade: 5.7.
Dakota Joshua was limited to 55 games due to injuries, including a lacerated kidney, and made little impact despite 195 hits. Grade: 5.7.
Easton Cowan showed promise as a rookie, with 29 points in 66 games and growing confidence. Grade: 6.8.
Matias Maccelli had 39 points in 71 games, falling short of expectations for a top-six forward. Grade: 5.9.
Calle Jarnkrok's tenure ended poorly, with no goals after January 13, and he's unlikely to return as an unrestricted free agent. Grade: 4.5.
Part-Time Players
Chris Tanev's absence due to injuries was a major blow to the defense, playing only 11 games. His health will be crucial next season.
Dennis Hildeby posted a .914 save percentage in 20 games, the best among Leafs goalies, and faces an intriguing future with waiver eligibility looming.
Jacob Quillan and Bo Groulx both showed flashes in late-season auditions, putting themselves in contention for bottom-six roles next year.
Overall, the Maple Leafs have significant work to do this offseason to address roster deficiencies and bounce back from a forgettable campaign.
