Toronto Maple Leafs: 2 Breakout Candidates for Next Season

With each season that passes, it seems that every NHL team has at least one player break out and become a crucial part of their roster. The 2024-25 season should offer more of the same, so we here at NHL Trade Rumors will be looking at a few breakout candidates from each NHL club heading into the new campaign.

In this latest installment of the series, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be the team of discussion.

Matthew Knies: Matthew Knies had a solid first full season with the Maple Leafs in 2023-24. In 80 games, the Phoenix, Arizona native recorded 15 goals, 35 points, and a plus-9 rating. Overall, it was a nice start to his NHL career, but there is no question that he could take another next forward in 2024-25. The potential for him to be a bigger offensive threat is there, and this is especially so when noting that he should get top-six minutes and power-play time next year.

Nick Robertson: Nick Robertson has had an eventful summer, as the 22-year-old notably requested a trade from the Maple Leafs. However, the team has made it clear that they view him as a piece of their future, so it seems more likely than not that he will remain with the club for the start of the season. When noting that Robertson has plenty of potential to take that next step, it would not be surprising if his offense hits a new level next season.