Eight audacious Maple Leafs predictions for 2023–2024, ranging from trades to Auston Matthews’ dominance.

It’s time to take out the crystal ball and make some predictions about the Toronto Maple Leafs’ future.

Only spicy forecasts. Here, modest takes are not permitted. On a spicy scale ranging from 🌶️ (gentle heat) to  (the hottest wings your favorite celebrity has nibbled at on Hot Ones), we will rank the dozen creations we’ve come up with.

Take a sip of your water and get started.

After spending last season getting to know Matthew Knies, I discovered that not much phases him. He is ready to play in Toronto with his makeup. And while his makeup is the same this season, his carefree attitude has given way to a more somber one. Building endurance to play the longest season of his career was his summertime focus.