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Do the Maple Leafs have an internal John Tavares replacement ready?

The Toronto Maple Leafs need someone to step up.

By Mark Ritter · Editor in Leaf

Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 at 3:00 AM

Key Things to Know

The writer argues the Maple Leafs do not have a viable internal replacement for the injured John Tavares.
Tavares is sidelined week-to-week with a lower-body injury with no clear timeline for return.
The author concludes AHL standouts Logan Shaw and Brendan Brisson are not ready or suited for the role.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Editor In Leaf argues that the Toronto Maple Leafs lack a capable internal replacement for John Tavares, who is listed as week-to-week with a lower-body injury. Following a 4-1 loss to the New York Islanders, head coach Jim Hiller faces limited options to fill the second-line center role.

The writer assesses AHL prospects Logan Shaw, Brendan Brisson, and Aatu Raty, concluding that none are viable replacements for Tavares. Instead, the author expects the Maple Leafs to rely on current roster players like Colton Sissons or Nick Paul to step up.

Read the full article on Editor in Leaf

Do the Maple Leafs have an internal John Tavares replacement ready?

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