As training camp nears its conclusion, NHL teams are starting to make cuts to finalize their opening day rosters. The Maple Leafs still face several unanswered questions, particularly regarding their forward lineup, which remains uncertain.

Fortunately for Maple Leafs fans, that decision is closer than originally anticipated. According to Lance Hornby on X:
”Leafs have only posted one practice time for [Monday] rather than for two or more groups. Indicates cuts are indeed coming well before the last two exhibition games vs. Detroit on Thursday and Saturday.”

The Maple Leafs have already made some cuts, including that of breakout junior defenseman Noah Chadwick. After exceeding his sixth-round draft expectations with impressive performances for the Lethbridge Hurricanes in the WHL and the Canadian World Junior team during the Summer Showcase, the organization clearly values Chadwick’s development.

Another notable cut was Miroslov Holinka, the Maple Leafs’ fifth-round pick from this year’s draft. While the Czech native showcased his skills at camp, having already played against seasoned professionals in the Czech league for Trinec Ocelari HC, he wasn’t quite ready for NHL action.

The Leafs will face some tough decisions regarding PTO players Max Pacioretty and Steven Lorentz. While both bring valuable attributes to the team, they fulfill different roles as Pacioretty is a proven scoring winger, even in the later stages of his career, whereas Lorentz is better suited for a fourth-line role as a responsible type of player who is coming off a Stanley Cup win with the Florida Panthers.

Another player to watch is rookie sensation Easton Cowan. Despite a remarkable 2023-24 season, in which he won multiple OHL awards, he has not been as dominant as expected during training camp, making his future with the Leafs uncertain.

The Maple Leafs have several decisions to make, and it seems we will soon see the lineup that will take the ice at the start of the season.