5 moves the Maple Leafs can make to get back to the playoffs

4. Make a decision regarding the future of the “old guard”

Tyler Bozak, James van Riemsdyk and Leo Komarov have all played critical roles during their respective tenures as members of the Maple Leafs. Bozak, among the best of the NHL’s undrafted talent in contemporary times, is a magician in the faceoff circle who has provided the team with solid depth down the middle. JVR, a giant with extremely gifted hands, is arguably the league’s best player in front of the net. And Komarov, a loveable grinder, serves as a feisty two-way winger who clocks in tough minutes on the penalty kill.

Nevertheless, the three forwards are somewhat polarizing figures among the current fanbase. Bozak and van Riemsdyk’s defensive shortcomings can prove to be costly on low-scoring nights, while Komarov’s lack of offensive output — especially when given substantial minutes — renders him subject to scrutiny.

The way in which administration goes about handling the future of the “old guard” could have far-reaching consequences for the Dubas-led Maple Leafs. Extending Bozak would ensure that the organization’s center depth is fairly secure for years to come, with the drawback being a weaker defensive presence on the Buds’ third line. Giving van Riemsdyk a contract would certainly be the most costly option, but the reward for a move of this nature could be vital if his underrated prowess extends into the future. And although Komarov has lost a step in recent seasons, there’s little doubt that he has the potential to play a key role on both the team’s fourth line and the penalty kill.

Of course, it’s possible that Dubas opts to move away from the primary pillars of the Maple Leafs’ “old-guard.” But should he offer a contract to any of these forwards, expect wide-ranging debates to occupy the hockey world.

After all, the right call could be a difference-maker in the postseason.