How the Toronto Maple Leafs’ defence corps compares to other Stanley Cup contenders

The Toronto Maple Leafs have always been known for their top-tier offence, with an ample amount of high-end talent and stars up and down the lineup. For the better part of the last decade, the Leafs were known for their weak defence and lack of toughness.

Over the last couple of years, there has been a shift in mentality. The  Maple Leafs, continuously chasing playoff glory, will once again enter the 2025 postseason with a roster facing intense pressure and scrutiny. While the offensive corps has had the firepower to succeed, the defensive corps has historically been a point of discussion for fans. With the playoffs right around the corner, how does the Leafs’ projected blueline stack up against other Stanley Cup contenders?

Assuming no major changes heading into the playoffs, the Leafs’ 2025 defence would have a mix of respected veterans and stars in their prime. Morgan Rielly, despite his lackluster season, will likely still be anchoring a top-four role, providing offensive dynamism and puck-moving prowess. With the trade deadline acquisition of Brandon Carlo, Rielly has a legitimate linemate with playoff experience against the Leafs.

The signings of Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson have brought in valuable veteran presence from two guys who bring some much-needed toughness and grit to the team. Jake McCabe has become a fan favourite and one of the most important players on the team. His steady play and ability to join the offensive rush are rare on this team. Beyond these core pieces, the Leafs have put together a formidable defence. Let’s see how it stacks up against the rest of the league’s contenders. 

Colorado Avalanche

The Avalanche, consistently contending, are likely to have a top defensive corps. There is not much to be said about Cale Makar, who will continue to be a generational talent, driving offence from the back end and tearing the league with his silky skating.

Devon Toews provides a steady, two-way partnership for Makar that has consistently performed, and with the addition of Ryan Lindgren, the Avalanche get stay-at-home defencemen who can bring a level of grit and toughness to a high-end defensive corps.

Compared to the potential Avalanche lineup, the Leafs may not have the same high-end offensive firepower from the blue line, but could offer a more balanced playstyle up and down the lineup

Tampa Bay Lightning

While the Lightning’s core may be aging and lack the depth of previous years, Victor Hedman, still playing at a high level, will remain a dominant force and one of the best defencemen in the league.

Ryan McDonagh could continue to anchor the second pairing, providing a physical presence and contributing on the offensive. The Lightning’s defensive depth might be a question mark, but their experience is unmatched. The Maple Leafs have beaten them once, though, and can do it again.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes, known for their structured defensive system, are likely to remain a tough opponent. Jaccob Slavin, a defensive star who had his shining moment at the 4 Nations: Face-Off, will likely continue to lead their blue line.

Brent Burns provides a reliable two-way presence while being one of the most experienced leaders in the league, and the Hurricanes’ coaching and system often bring out the best performance of their defencemen. The Leafs, while potentially possessing more individual offensive talent on the blue line, might struggle to match the Hurricanes’ defensive cohesion and chemistry.

Dallas Stars

The Stars’ blue line, anchored by elite defenceman Miro Heiskanen, provides a more complete 200-foot game than Toronto’s. Dallas’s depth is impressive, with Thomas Harley and Esa Lindell providing a balanced and reliable defensive structure.

With players like Matt Dumba and former Leaf Ilya Lybushkin, the stars have a deep defence with a good mix of toughness, grit and skill. 

Florida Panthers

Florida’s group, led by Aaron Ekblad and Gustav Forsling—two leaders on the back-end—demonstrates defensive zone coverage and physical presence. Nikko Mikkola has shown much improvement on the offensive, stepping up as a vital member of this defensive corps. The addition of Seth Jones is exactly the type of player who would thrive in this locker room.

While this team isn’t the same as last year, Leafs fans everywhere should be just as concerned. 

A Cup-worthy blueline

The Leafs have assembled a defensive corps capable of going toe-to-toe with the league’s best. The key will be remaining consistent and executing their system under Berube’s leadership in the biggest games.

If they can effectively accomplish this, their defence could finally help deliver the playoff success that this team has missed for the longest time.