Maple Leafs’ 5 Costly Mistakes vs. Blues – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

On Thursday night, the Toronto Maple Leafs lost 5-1 to the St. Fans expected Toronto to come back strong after being blown out by six goals in the previous game, but the Blues quickly dashed those hopes by scoring twice in the first 10 minutes on just five shots. The Maple Leafs’ defensive struggles put them in holding mode from the start, and a series of breakdowns allowed St. Louis to control the scoreboard.

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Here are five key mistakes that contributed to the Maple Leafs’ challenging night on home ice.

Mistake 1: Maple Leafs Start Slow on Defense

Toronto’s defense got caught early, allowing two quick goals that set the tone for the rest of the game. The Blues, led by the relentless skating Jordan Kyrou, outclassed the Maple Leafs on defense. Chris Tanev, for example, chased Kyrou and cut many points in the area instead of closing him down early. Extra time allowed Kyrou to make a shot from the spot.

The Maple Leafs failed to get Pavel Buchnevich out, checking Joseph Woll in goal. This misstep had a lasting impact, forcing Toronto into catch-up hockey from the start. They couldn’t make it happen.

Mistake 2: The Maple Leafs’ Top Line Controversy Continues

The Maple Leafs’ top line has been central to their offensive strategy, but this game, Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and Matthew Knies posted a minus-3 average for the second straight game. The same struggle was at work in their defense. The collapse of the defensive line was costly. Matthews and Marner seemed tired from the hectic schedule. Or are they strong habits?

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The first line was unable to find space in midfield or put enough pressure on the Blues counter attack. This ongoing error highlighted a continuing problem for this talented but overworked line. Something is happening with Toronto’s starting lineup, and it’s puzzling what that might be. They look out of sync.

Mistake 3: The Maple Leafs Power Play Is Weak

The Maple Leafs power play is becoming a real puzzle. With so many talented players, this unit should be an offensive driver. However, it doesn’t stop there. The Maple Leafs failed to convert despite four chances with a crazy advantage against the Blues. Similar to the first line, the power play looks sluggish and predictable in its approach.

The Maple Leafs’ power play struggled, just 3-for-27, exposing problems with projection and a lack of effective scoring. Opponents shut down Toronto’s options by blocking space, and the team’s failure to generate high chances limited Matthews and other key players from scoring. Without intelligence or urgency, their advantage is a man who lacks the spark needed to change momentum in their favor.

Mistake 4: Berube Made a Poor Goal Setting Decision

Coach Craig Berube’s decision to start Joseph Woll over Anthony Stolarz has raised eyebrows, as Stolarz has shown solid play early in the season. Woll had not played a competitive game in 175 days. He stopped but could not close the door. While Berube may have wanted to rest Stolarz for Saturday’s game against Boston, the move set him back.

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Woll struggled with reading and positioning, perhaps due to some rust. While Woll should get his reps and needs to start at some point, last night was an odd decision. Stolarz could have given the Maple Leafs a steady performance in goal at a time when they needed a comeback. Berube’s decision ultimately left Toronto lacking the confidence it needed, especially at a crucial time early in the season.

Mistake 5: Maple Leafs Making Lazy Defensive Plays or Not Communicating

A lack of communication and composure plagued Toronto’s defense throughout the game. Jake McCabe’s dangerous pass to Matthews, who was already under pressure, led to one goal. Alex Texier makes money by sneaking into an unguarded area in front of Woll.

The Blues’ third goal also came from a breakdown in Toronto’s defense when Kyrou found Texier due to Toronto’s poor preparation. While Woll didn’t get as much support, small lapses in effort and awareness—especially on loose pucks—became critical mistakes for Toronto.

What’s Next for Maple Leaves?

While there were positives—Toronto managed 85 shot attempts to the Blues’ 43 and capitalized on the most dangerous opportunities—the Maple Leafs’ offense remains a concern. With back-to-back road games against Boston and Winnipeg, they enter a brutal stretch of the schedule. A stretch of four games in six nights has undoubtedly worn down Toronto’s roster, especially their top line. Berube’s hot routines may increase this fatigue, so the upcoming light schedule should allow the team to rest.

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The Maple Leafs need to refocus on the defensive structure and avoid turnovers to stay competitive. While early season losses can be frustrating, with some tactical adjustments, there is potential to bounce back in the coming weeks.

[Note: I want to thank long-time Maple Leafs fan Stan Smith for collaborating with me on this post. Stan’s Facebook profile can be found here.]