The Toronto Maple Leafs have undergone (and are still undergoing) a near complete team makeover. Last January the process started when the Maple Leafs hired General Manager Cliff Fletcher. Fletcher began right then and there making some drastic team changes, but he hadn’t time to complete them all. Now, in the offseason, he has had more time to analyze the Leafs’ situation.

First and foremost Fletcher has hired new head coach Ron Wilson. Wilson’s no-nonsense approach to hockey, as well as his impressive 518 victories (NHL record eighth highest total), should provide a strong foundation for Toronto in the upcoming year. Wilson is highly renowned for his strong defensive schemes, which should fit well in the Leafs depth at defense.

Starting from the goalie, Vesa Toskala will serve as the backbone of the Leafs’ defense. The number one ranked goalie is expected to blank many of the best opposing offensive players, and will be supported by backup goalie Curtis Joseph. Assisting Toskala will be a near impenetrable defense featuring defensive wonder Bryan McCabe.

Questions still remain as to the quality of their offensive lines. While their first line features the powerful triumvirate of Nik Antropov, Alex Ponikarovsky and Alex Steen, their scoring potential is still suspect. For the Maple Leafs, however, perhaps a great defense is the best offense.