New Maple Leafs defender Brandon Carlo is exceeding expectations in Toronto regardless of the team's recent struggles and the proof is in the numbers.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are currently enduring a tough stretch of games, suffering another defeat last night -- a disappointing 4-2 loss to their rivals the Ottawa Senators at home.
At the trade deadline, the Maple Leafs made a couple of significant moves, acquiring Scott Laughton and Bruins defender Brandon Carlo, signaling their status as contenders who are treating this year with an all-in mentality. However, despite these additions, the team has struggled, posting a 1-4 record since the trades.
Nevertheless, as noted by Kevin Papetti on X, Carlo has been one of the few bright spots during this challenging stretch.
'Brendan Carlo is off to a strong start with the Leafs by xGF%.He's at 60.5% through four games, and he's done this while the majority of the team has struggled.'
Carlo has settled in well with the Leafs. He isn't known for putting up points, but his strengths lie in his defensive game. At 6'5' and a right-handed shot, he will be a key asset for the team moving forward, and with a couple of years left on his contract, he'll help the team greatly beyond the season.
Interestingly, Carlo has also formed an unexpected bond with his new teammate Max Domi, revealing that Domi is his favourite teammate on the Leafs so far -- a surprising revelation considering the two have had many on-ice battles during Carlo's time with the Boston Bruins.
As the playoffs draw near, the hope is that Carlo's strong performance will inspire the rest of the team, especially given how concerning this stretch of play has been leading up to the postseason.
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