"For better or worse." That was Toronto Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas' own words when asked whether he believed his current core of players could get the job done after another first round exit from the playoffs this past season when expectations were high.
"For better or worse, I believe in this group, and I believe that they are going to get it done, and I believe that they're going to win. I believe we're going to see the best version of this group, and I'm willing to bet everything on that," Dubas told reporters.
"I understand that comes with certain doubt because of the fact the we have not broken through in the playoffs, but it's my belief that they will. I believe in them as players, I believe in them as people and I know that that decision lies on me and what the risk is for me."
The Maple Leafs core includes players like
Auston Matthews,
Mitch Marner,
John Tavares, Jake Muzzin and
William Nylander. After the Leafs gave up a 3-1 series lead in the first round of the playoffs to lose in seven games to the Montreal Canadiens this past season, many believed that something had to give and that one of the big name players would be traded to bring in more grit and toughness. It certainly doesn't appear that will be the case given what Dubas told reporters Thursday. This coming season may very well be Dubas' last chance to get get playoff results. Another first round exit would be an absolute disaster given the amount of talent the team has.
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