On a recent Real Kyper and Bourne episode, the hosts delved into the performance of Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving during his inaugural year. They pondered whether his initial choices warrant reassessment and if he deserves more acknowledgment than he initially garnered.
The conversation analyzed Treliving’s strategy regarding free agency and team composition, particularly emphasizing the signing of John Klingberg as a pivotal move. The hosts debated the hypothetical dynamics if the team had invested heavily in a player with defensive deficiencies.
Klingberg’s injury turned out surprisingly advantageous for the team, as the money saved from his salary could be reallocated to other key players, significantly benefiting the team’s financial planning.
The depth of the team and the impact of players like Tyler Bertuzzi were also scrutinized. Some commended Treliving’s transactions, while others stressed the importance of success in crucial playoff situations, acknowledging the mounting pressure on Treliving and the coaching staff with the impending playoffs.
The discussion included Bertuzzi’s performance, noting his slow start, but recent productivity spike. His ability to score and bring physicality to the game is viewed as promising, with high hopes for him to replicate his past successful playoff performance with the Bruins. Fans in Ontario are eagerly anticipating his potential impact with the Maple Leafs.
Max Domi, despite a shaky beginning, has evolved into a dependable player for the team. His strengths in playmaking and adaptability in different line combinations make him a valuable contributor, especially when playing alongside elite teammates like Auston Matthews. The expectation is for Domi to secure a contract extension for the upcoming season due to his significant contributions.
Dewar Treliving also made some acquisitions and trades to fill the team’s needs, which included bringing in Ilya Lyubushkin, Joel Edmundson, and Connor Dewar. To get Lyubushkin, a right-handed defenceman, Treliving traded a 2025 third-round pick, and for Edmundson, a left-handed defenceman, he exchanged a 2024 sixth-round pick. Dewar, known for his penalty-killing skills, was acquired at the cost of a 2025 fifth-round pick and Dmitry Ovchinnikov. Additionally, Cade Webber and Kirill Slepets’ rights were included in the trade deals to strengthen the team’s defense and penalty-killing abilities while preserving the team’s prospects and draft assets.
Although some may argue that Lyubushkin may not make a big impact, he has proven himself dependable since joining. He plays a tough, straightforward style of hockey and has earned the respect and camaraderie of his teammates, fitting in well with the defensive unit, including Morgan Rielly.
Edmundson has shown solid performance when healthy, excelling in clearing the front of the net and playing a physical game. Despite initial doubts, he has been a valuable addition to the team at a reasonable cost, the only concern being his ability to stay injury-free.
Dewar has significantly boosted the team’s penalty kill since his arrival, excelling in that aspect while the power play struggles. His contributions, along with younger players like McMahon and Holmberg, have made the penalty kill a strong point for the team, with even Nylander showing potential in this role.
