Craig Berube hints at potential demotion for star Maple Leafs forward

Berube's immediate challenge is to choose the Leafs' second-line center, with the choice narrowing down to either Max Domi or William Nylander. This could result in a demotion for an established player, likely Captain John Tavares.

Some suggest moving star forward Mitch Marner to the second-line center position. Marner's exceptional two-way play makes him a strong candidate for this role, potentially balancing the second line.

Tavares' production dropped last season, reaching its lowest point since his rookie year, making a third-line role more probable for him this season.

At $11 million, Tavares could become the priciest third-liner in the league.

Nylander and Marner both had standout seasons compared to Tavares, with Nylander scoring 40 goals and a career-high 98 points in 80 games, and Marner notching 85 points in 69 games. This impressive performance suggests they are unlikely to be relegated to the third line.

Source: Hockey Patrol
Maple Leafs Star forward faces demotion in Toronto hints Craig Berube

Source: HockeyDB
Mitch Marner Statistics

Source: HockeyDB
William Nylander Statistics