The Maple Leafs just watched their playoff hopes take another hit as two game-changing players slipped through their fingers.
Both Mikko Rantanen and J.T. Miller – guys who’ve put up 100+ point seasons – landed with Toronto’s conference rivals instead. That’s got to sting for Leafs fans.
The timing couldn’t be worse. With the 4 Nations Tournament around the corner and teams loading up for a playoff push, Toronto’s looking shakier than ever.
It’s not just about missing out on star power. The Leafs have some pretty glaring holes in their lineup right now.
Their bottom six forwards aren’t getting it done. And their defense? Let’s just say "puck movement" isn’t exactly their strong suit.
So what’s next for Toronto?
Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman dropped an interesting nugget about Casey Mittelstadt possibly being on the Leafs’ radar.
"Colorado made a run at Miller, but it never got close enough to threaten the Rangers deal," Friedman reported. "That’s why Casey Mittelstadt’s name is out there. Believe New Jersey, Ottawa, and Toronto poked around, but not with much traction."
The big question now is whether the Leafs pivot to chasing a defenseman or try to replace the offensive firepower they missed out on with Rantanen and Miller.
With their conference rivals getting stronger and the playoffs looming, Toronto’s running out of time to figure it out.
