The Toronto Maple Leafs face tough decisions this offseason after failing to reach the Conference Finals. Star players like Mitch Marner and John Tavares have uncertain futures, with Marner possibly playing his last game as a Leaf. Tavares expressed his commitment to staying in Toronto but may have to accept a discount. The Leafs are also evaluating other roster moves, including the futures of pending free agents like Max Pacioretty and Jani Hakanpaa, and restricted free agents Matthew Knies and Nick Robertson.

Analysis suggests that retaining Marner may not be feasible due to salary cap constraints, prompting the Leafs to explore alternative free-agent signings such as Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand. The team must avoid coming back with the same core if they hope to break their long Cup drought, especially after historically poor performances in clutch playoff scenarios.