Leafs Morning Take

Maple Leafs team host Ryan Leslie joined Nick Alberga & Jay Rosehill to break down a whirlwind stretch in Leafs Nation.To start, Leslie shared his thoughts on the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida, admitting he wasn't surprised to see the Panthers swing big once again. From there, he discussed the mood surrounding the Maple Leafs right now, noting that it's hard to feel anything but intrigue and optimism as the organization continues to turn the page under its new leadership group.Leslie also reflected on his recent trip to the NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo, where he spent time around projected top pick Gavin McKenna, along with Ivar Stenberg and Chase Reid. Of the three, he raved about McKenna's competitiveness and edge, believing he possesses the type of jam every organization covets.The conversation then shifted to the Toronto Marlies' Calder Cup championship run. Having spent plenty of time around the team this season, Leslie praised Easton Cowan's character and talent while highlighting the complete buy-in throughout the organization, from the veterans to the youngest players on the roster.Additionally, Leslie weighed in on Toronto's acquisition of Darren Raddysh, sharing that everyone he's spoken to has had glowing things to say about the Toronto native. He also touched on the growing trend of local players embracing the opportunity to play for their hometown team, something that wasn't always the case in years past.Finally, Leslie discussed his excitement to work with the many new faces joining the Maple Leafs organization and what promises to be a fascinating next chapter in Toronto.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

Nick Alberga & Jay Rosehill kick off the week by reacting to Sunday's bombshell blockbuster as the Ottawa Senators traded captain Brady Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers.What does the move mean for the Atlantic Division? What does it mean for the Maple Leafs? And with the cloud surrounding Auston Matthews' long-term future still lingering, what lessons can Toronto learn from Ottawa's willingness to make such a bold move?The boys also show some love to the Toronto Marlies after they captured the second Calder Cup championship in franchise history on Friday night. What does the victory say about the organization's prospect pipeline and future?Plus, with draft week officially underway, The Athletic's James Mirtle stops by to break down all the latest Leafs news, notes, rumours, and storylines as what promises to be a fascinating week in Toronto gets underway.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

The Athletic's James Mirtle joined Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill to break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Maple Leafs as draft week gets underway.First, they discussed the blockbuster Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida and what lessons Toronto can learn from how things unfolded in Ottawa. Mirtle stressed the importance of maintaining an open dialogue with Auston Matthews and his camp, noting that while Matthews appears committed for now, his long-term future could ultimately hinge on how competitive the Leafs prove to be over the next few seasons.From there, the conversation shifted to the Matthew Knies trade speculation. Mirtle cautioned against creating frustration with a young American star player, but acknowledged that Knies' name surfaces because Toronto lacks many other premium assets capable of landing impact talent.They also touched on the Sergei Bobrovsky rumours, with Mirtle questioning the fit unless the veteran netminder is willing to come on a short-term, prove-it deal. Finally, he weighed in on the Leafs' sign-and-trade for Darren Raddysh, admitting there's risk attached to the contract but understanding why Toronto felt compelled to take a swing on a player who fills a significant need.Plus, the boys continue to dissect the fallout from Ottawa's stunning trade, the state of the Atlantic Division, and what it all means for the Leafs moving forward.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

Nick Alberga & David Pagnotta react to the Toronto Maple Leafs' bombshell sign-and-trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning for defenceman Darren Raddysh. Pagnotta breaks down the deal, what it says about John Chayka's vision for the team, and where the Leafs could turn their attention next as an eventful offseason continues.The boys also recap the Toronto Marlies' heartbreaking 4-3 overtime loss to the Chicago Wolves in Game 4 of the Calder Cup Final. Despite the setback, Toronto still holds a commanding 3-1 series lead and will look to capture the Calder Cup on home ice in Game 5 on Friday night.Plus, The Fourth Period and SiriusXM NHL Network Radio's Dennis Bernstein joins the show. After covering Jim Hiller during his time in Los Angeles, Bernstein offers insight into the Leafs' new head coach, what Toronto can expect from him behind the bench, and his thoughts on the organization's whirlwind week and offseason to date.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️  / @theleafsnation401  SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365: http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+. 👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us! Visit www.nationgear.ca for merch and more.

Nick Alberga and David Pagnotta break down another massive week in Leafs Nation with Senior Writer from The Fourth Period, Dennis Bernstein.To start, they dive into Toronto's stunning sign-and-trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning for Darren Raddysh. Bernstein explains why he likes the move, why the 8-year, $68 million contract doesn't bother him, and what realistic offensive expectations should be for the Toronto native moving forward.The conversation then shifts to Morgan Rielly's future with the Maple Leafs, with Bernstein suggesting Anaheim as a potential landing spot if Toronto decides to explore a move.From there, the guys discuss Matthew Knies and why trading the young winger makes little sense unless the Leafs are blown away by a king's ransom offer.Finally, Bernstein weighs in on the hiring of Jim Hiller as head coach. Having covered Hiller during his time with the Kings, Bernstein admits he was surprised by the hire, discusses the analytics connection with John Chayka, and explains why he still has plenty of questions about how it'll all play out in Toronto.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

Nick Alberga & Jay Rosehill sift through the latest news, notes, and rumours surrounding the Maple Leafs following their unveiling of Jim Hiller as the 41st head coach in franchise history. The boys break down the hire, discuss what it means for the future of the team, and dissect the key takeaways from Hiller and GM John Chayka's introductory media availability.Meantime, the Toronto Marlies are one win away from a Calder Cup championship as they prepare for Game 4 against the Chicago Wolves. Nick and Rosie preview the matchup and discuss what the Marlies need to do to finish it off.Plus, Barry Trotz stops by to offer insight into Hiller's coaching style and leadership after spending three seasons with him on the New York Islanders bench. What exactly are the Maple Leafs getting in their new head coach?To wrap things up, Todd Minerson, Country Director at Movember Canada, drops by to discuss Men's Health Week, the importance of men's mental and physical well-being, and why taking care of yourself today can help you show up for the moments that matter most.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

Barry Trotz joins Nick Alberga & Jay Rosehill to break down what the Maple Leafs are getting in new head coach Jim Hiller. Having worked alongside Hiller for three seasons with the New York Islanders, Trotz shares insight into Hiller's coaching style, leadership qualities, communication skills, and why he believes he's ready for one of the biggest jobs in hockey. 🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Dakota Joshua joined Nick Alberga & Jay Rosehill for a wide-ranging conversation. He started by reacting to the hiring of Jim Hiller as the team's new head coach, calling it exciting news and noting he's heard nothing but positive things about Hiller from people around the organization.Joshua also discussed the significance of change following a disappointing season, admitting the group fell well short of expectations. He said the fresh start brought on by organizational changes has been welcomed by the players, adding that everyone is eager to put last season behind them after it left a bad taste in their mouths.The conversation then shifted to the Leafs winning the draft lottery and the excitement surrounding the opportunity to add a franchise-changing talent. Joshua also weighed in on the current mood around the team, the lessons learned from last season, and why he felt the urgency level never reached where it needed to be.Additionally, he shared his thoughts on the trade that sent Joseph Woll and Simon Benoit to Philadelphia, admitting it was tough to see two close friends moved out of the organization. Joshua also opened up about the lacerated kidney injury he suffered, detailing the physical and mental challenges that came with the recovery process.To wrap things up, Joshua set the record straight on William Nylander's viral middle-finger moment, revealing he didn't even see it happen in real time because his view was blocked. He also had a funny story about Craig Berube's bizarre barbell injury.🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨➡️ / @theleafsnation401SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!!👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+.👍🏼MOVEMBER: https://ca.movember.com/Reach out to sales@thenationnetwork.com to connect with our Sales Team and discuss opportunities to partner with us!