The Toronto Maple Leafs’ start to the season hasn’t entirely gone to plan. With a team experiencing so much turnover, it makes sense there would be some growing pains, especially as a new coach brings new systems.
NHL Trade Talk highlights growing concern among Toronto Maple Leafs fans and media regarding rookie Gavin McKenna, who missed multiple optional team skates during the opening week of the season. The 18-year-old forward previously cited body rest for missing a morning skate, but he subsequently skipped a Sunday optional skills session that veteran players like Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares attended.
The article notes that McKenna has struggled early in his rookie campaign, recording zero points through three games with poor underlying defensive analytics. Media commentator Sid Seixeiro criticized the absences, arguing that a struggling rookie should be attending every practice session to adapt to the pace and physical demands of the NHL.
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