When people talk about the Toronto Maple Leafs, the focus is usually on their famous ‘Core Four’ forwards—Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares. But quietly and consistently, the Leafs’ defense has been playing an outstanding role in the team’s success during this year’s Stanley Cup playoffs.
With Toronto leading their first-round series against the Ottawa Senators 2-0, it’s time the Maple Leafs’ defensemen get the praise they’ve earned.
Leafs Defense Blocking the Way
In both Games 1 and 2, Toronto’s defense stepped up with strong performances—especially when it came to blocking shots. In Game 1, the Leafs blocked 18 shots, while Ottawa had only 12. Game 2 was even more one-sided: the Senators blocked just six shots, while Toronto blocked an impressive 32.
These stats show how committed Toronto’s players are to protecting their net. Brandon Carlo tied with star forward Auston Matthews for the team-high with four blocked shots. Morgan Rielly had three, while Chris Tanev, Simon Benoit, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson had two each.
Coach Craig Berube appreciated their effort, saying, “You’ve got to block shots when needed. Teams that succeed in the playoffs usually do.”
Defensive Contributions on Offense Too
Toronto’s defensemen are not only blocking shots—they’re also helping the team score. During the regular season, Toronto’s blueliners scored the fewest goals in the league (only 21 in 82 games). But in just two playoff games, they’ve already scored three goals—two from Rielly and one from Ekman-Larsson.
In Game 2’s overtime win, Simon Benoit joined the attack and assisted Max Domi on the game-winning goal. This shows how well-rounded the defense unit has become.
Big Bodies, Big Impact
Toronto’s defense lineup is also physically strong. Even the shortest defensemen—Rielly and Jake McCabe—are still 6 feet 1 inch tall. Others like Carlo (6’5”), Benoit (6’4”), Tanev (6’3”), and Ekman-Larsson (6’2”) add serious size and strength to the team. This makes them hard to push around, giving Toronto an edge in physical battles.
GM Brad Treliving has carefully rebuilt the Leafs’ defense, and many now say this is the best group the team has had since Matthews and Marner joined the franchise.
Staying Focused on Their Role
While scoring is a bonus, Toronto’s defensemen are mainly focused on doing their job in the defensive zone. Coach Berube doesn’t expect them to be stars on offense—he just wants them to keep the front of the net clear, block shots, and stop Ottawa’s top players from getting good chances. So far, they’ve done that very well.
Ottawa’s Struggles in Comparison
Looking at Ottawa’s defense shows a big difference. Their defensemen have fewer blocked shots and less impact overall. Players like Thomas Chabot and Tyler Kleven have just one assist each. And some like Nick Jensen and Kleven haven’t blocked a single shot.
If the Senators want to make a comeback in the series, they’ll need to put more pressure on Toronto’s defense and improve their own defensive play.
While Toronto’s star forwards usually get the attention, it’s the defensemen who are quietly playing a key role in their playoff success. From blocking shots to adding surprise offense and standing strong in front of the net, the Leafs’ D-men have been reliable and fearless. Their teamwork, toughness, and calm attitude have made a huge difference—and if they keep this up, Toronto will continue to be a strong playoff contender.
