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Toronto coach expects more from Max Domi this season | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, September 11th 2025 at 15:32 GMT by Sporting News
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Toronto Maple Leafs Coach Hints at a Bigger Role for Max Domi

When the Maple Leafs acquired former star forward Max Domi in March, the excitement in Toronto was palpable. Now, with a handful of games under his belt, head coach Sheldon Keefe is already talking about how Domi’s skill set will be leveraged in the second half of the season. In a recent interview with the Sporting News, Keefe offered a detailed look at the expectations the team has for the 28‑year‑old center, the strategic fit he sees for Domi on the roster, and the impact he hopes the veteran will bring as the Leafs chase a deep playoff run.

The Trade That Sent Domi Home

Domi’s return to Toronto was one of the most talked‑about moves of the 2022‑23 NHL season. On March 1, 2023, the Maple Leafs traded defenseman Mattias Ekholm, forward Andrew Ladd, and a 2024 second‑round pick to the Los Angeles Kings for Domi, a 2024 fourth‑round pick, and a 2025 second‑round pick. The deal sent a familiar face back to the East Coast after a four‑year stint with the Kings, where Domi had recorded 32 points in 59 games and earned a reputation as a reliable two‑way forward.

Previously, Domi played for the Leafs during the 2017‑18 season, scoring 36 points in 80 games. His familiarity with Toronto’s system and his proven power‑play prowess made him an attractive acquisition for a team that has struggled to find a consistent offensive catalyst in recent years.

Early Numbers and Immediate Impact

Since arriving in Toronto, Domi has taken to the lineup with a quiet confidence that belies his statistical output. In 24 games, he has registered 7 points—4 goals and 3 assists—while averaging 17 minutes of ice time per game. While those numbers might not scream “super‑star," Keefe stresses that the raw data only tells part of the story. Domi’s face‑off win percentage sits at a league‑high 55 %, and his average shift length—roughly 12 seconds—indicates that the coach is trusting him to stay on the ice during critical moments.

Keefe also highlighted Domi’s defensive acumen. “He’s a big guy, but he plays the small‑space game,” he said. “We’re seeing him on the power‑play and the penalty kill, and his positioning is exactly what we need.” The coach noted that Domi’s ability to read the play and make the right decisions under pressure has already translated into fewer giveaways for the team.

The Strategic Fit: Power‑Play, Penalty Kill, and Line Pairings

One of the most interesting aspects of Keefe’s interview was his description of the specific roles he envisions for Domi. According to the coach, Domi will be a key component of the Leafs’ power‑play unit, a role that is consistent with his NHL legacy. Domi has posted 28 power‑play goals over the past four seasons, making him one of the league’s most reliable face‑off men on the man‑advantage.

Beyond the power play, Keefe is placing Domi on the team’s third line, pairing him with veteran winger Jake Graham and rookie forward Alex Kozak. “We’re looking for depth scoring, and Domi’s chemistry with the line will help us push the puck through the slot,” Keefe explained. The coach also hinted that Domi might be considered for the 2‑nd line in a pinch if injuries arise or the team needs a hot hand. “He’s flexible, and he can handle the extra responsibility,” Keefe added.

The Maple Leafs’ penalty‑kill strategy, which has been under scrutiny for a slow‑start to the season, also stands to benefit from Domi’s presence. The 6‑foot‑3, 215‑lb center has already made several key interceptions and forced turnovers during the past month. “You need guys who can take the puck out of the corners and read the play. Domi’s doing that, and that’s a huge contribution,” Keefe noted.

Coaching Insight: “He’s A Human Being”

Keefe’s comments went beyond statistics and lineup discussions. When asked about Domi’s personality and work ethic, the coach emphasized his interpersonal qualities. “He’s a great teammate,” Keefe said. “He goes out of his way to help younger guys and is always on the field for a coaching session.” Domi’s presence in the locker room, especially with the Maple Leafs’ influx of young talent such as Cale Morris and Alex Tuch, was framed as a stabilizing factor that can translate into better on‑ice chemistry.

The coach also mentioned that Domi is a natural leader—something that can help keep the team’s morale high during a stretch run. “You need players who can be there for you in a crisis. Domi is one of those guys,” Keefe added, hinting at his willingness to step into a larger role if the team’s needs change.

Future Outlook: Contract and Potential Extensions

While the Leafs currently hold Domi under a one‑year contract, Keefe’s optimism suggests that the team may consider extending his stay. “If you’re looking to build a championship‑contending roster, you’ll have to keep a player who can play at the level he’s doing,” Keefe said. “We’re definitely going to monitor how he performs and see if it’s worth a longer commitment.”

Given the Leafs’ current cap situation and the fact that Domi’s salary is $6.2 million per year—below the league average for a top‑six forward—any extension would be a cost‑effective addition. The team’s general manager, Brendan McCabe, has emphasized that the Leafs want to keep veteran presence in the lineup as they pursue their long‑term goals, making Domi an attractive candidate for a multi‑year deal.

Final Thoughts

Sheldon Keefe’s comments provide a clear roadmap for how the Maple Leafs plan to utilize Max Domi. He sees the former Maple Leaf as a crucial piece in the power‑play unit, a dependable penalty‑kill performer, and a line‑up depth player capable of stepping into a higher role if needed. Domi’s experience, face‑off prowess, and defensive reliability align well with the Leafs’ immediate needs as they race toward a deep playoff run.

For fans, the most important takeaway is that the return of a familiar face is not just sentimental—it’s a tactical decision aimed at bolstering the team’s competitiveness. If Keefe’s assessment holds true, Domi could become the hidden engine that powers Toronto’s push toward the Stanley Cup. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether the Maple Leafs can translate Domi’s potential into tangible results on the ice.