Maple Leafs Craig Berube has huge decision to make on two top stars

The Toronto Maple Leafs forward group is shaking up to be one of the best in the NHL once again in 2024/25, but heading into August, the lineup still isn't completely sorted. According to Luke Fox, the team are already set to make one huge call, as it appears John Tavares, captain of the team will be demoted to the third line, a spot he found himself often in 2023/24 under Sheldon Keefe.

Now, that opens up the second line, with the decision for Berube reportedly set to come down to Mitch Marner and William Nylander.

Last season, the Maple Leafs began the year by pushing Nylander into the center position, and with a permanent role up for grabs on the back of his massive extension, it's safe to say that he might be the favourite for the role right now. Another reason that may be the case is the chemistry between Auston Matthews and Marner on the top line, and with Max Domi, Bobby McMann and Matthew Knies set to fill out the top six, whichever decision they make could pay off well.

There's still plenty of time before training camp begins, but with the pressure of yet another Stanley Cup or bust season upcoming in Toronto, if they choose wrong, it could result in more disappointment and ultimately, the loss of Marner.

Source: Hockey Feed
Demotion coming to star forward in Toronto as Craig Berube faces tough call