Auston Matthews’ health is the Leafs’ ceiling gauge: preseason hints point to a 50–60 goal pace if he stays healthy, highlighted by an early power-play goal. Toronto is juggling top-line chemistry with Max Domi sliding into Matthews’ wing, while Matthew Knies pushes into a larger role and Mitch Marner drives playmaking. Deep pieces and goaltending depth are being tested as the club prepares for Montreal, with Stolarz stabilizing the net and Benoit/Ekman-Larsson shaping the back end.

The roster decisions, from scratched forwards to potential rookie Easton Cowan’s debut, underscore a tight competition for spots and minutes. Fantasy managers should watch how lines and special-teams evolve in these last pre-season weeks as the Leafs aim to maximize Matthews’ return to elite scoring and the group’s depth by opening night.