Maple Leafs Benefiting from Early Christmas Presents in 2024: A Critical Examination

Introduction

The Toronto Maple Leafs have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NHL in recent years, failing to make it past the first round of the playoffs since 2004.
However, things may be looking up for the Leafs in 2024, as they are set to receive two major benefits: the return of Auston Matthews from injury and the addition of Connor Bedard, the consensus No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
These two players could be the difference-makers that the Leafs need to finally break through and win their first Stanley Cup in over 50 years.

The Return of Auston Matthews

Auston Matthews is one of the best players in the NHL, and his return from injury will be a major boost for the Leafs. Matthews was on pace for another MVP season in 2022-23 before suffering a knee injury that sidelined him for the rest of the year.
With Matthews back in the lineup, the Leafs will have one of the most dangerous offenses in the NHL. He is a lethal scorer who can also set up his teammates.

In 2021-22, Matthews scored 60 goals and added 46 assists in 73 games. He also led the NHL in shots on goal with 348.

With Matthews back in the lineup, the Leafs will be a much more difficult team to defend. He will take the pressure off of other players, such as Mitch Marner and William Nylander, and he will create more scoring chances for his teammates.

The Addition of Connor Bedard

Connor Bedard is the most highly touted prospect in the NHL since Connor McDavid. He is a dynamic centerman who can score goals, set up his teammates, and play defense.

Bedard had a dominant season in the WHL in 2022-23, scoring 51 goals and adding 49 assists in 62 games. He also led the WHL in points per game with 1.63.

Bedard is expected to make an immediate impact in the NHL. He is a skilled player who is ready to contribute at the highest level.

The addition of Bedard will give the Leafs a dynamic one-two punch down the middle with Matthews. Bedard can play center or wing, so he gives the Leafs some flexibility in their lineup.

Conclusion

The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to receive two major benefits in 2024: the return of Auston Matthews from injury and the addition of Connor Bedard, the consensus No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
These two players could be the difference-makers that the Leafs need to finally break through and win their first Stanley Cup in over 50 years.
However, it is important to remember that the Leafs are not the only team in the NHL that is looking to improve. The Boston Bruins, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Colorado Avalanche are all among the contenders for the Stanley Cup in 2024.
The Leafs will need to play their best hockey in order to win the Stanley Cup. They will need to be consistent, they will need to stay healthy, and they will need to get timely production from their stars.
If they can do all of those things, then they have a good chance of winning their first Stanley Cup in over 50 years.