{"id":191692,"date":"2025-09-13T15:40:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-13T15:40:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nhl\/191692\/"},"modified":"2025-09-13T15:40:14","modified_gmt":"2025-09-13T15:40:14","slug":"toronto-maple-leafs-news-rumours-maccelli-vs-knies-fabbris-fit-and-quillans-opportunity-the-hockey-writers-toronto-maple-leafs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nhl\/191692\/","title":{"rendered":"Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumours: Maccelli vs. Knies, Fabbri\u2019s Fit, and Quillan\u2019s Opportunity – The Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs"},"content":{"rendered":"

Training camp is almost here, and the Toronto Maple Leafs<\/a> enter it with no shortage of storylines. For the first time in years, the lineup around Auston Matthews feels less confident, and the absence of Mitch Marner has opened up new battles. At the same time, management continues to look for ways to add value to the roster without overspending.<\/p>\n

Related: Evaluating the Maple Leafs\u2019 Atlantic Division Rivals Ahead of the 2025-26 Season<\/a><\/p>\n

This combination of opportunity and competition creates the perfect backdrop for three storylines to watch. From who claims a spot next to Matthews, to whether a Stanley Cup champion might earn a look, to a prospect who could force his way into the conversation, the Leafs\u2019 preseason could carry real implications for how this season starts.<\/p>\n

Item One: Maccelli vs. Knies: Who Fits Best Beside Auston Matthews?<\/p>\n

The Maple Leafs face a fascinating battle heading into training camp: who should skate on Matthews\u2019 wing in the post-Marner era? Two names stand out\u2014Matias Maccelli<\/a> and Matthew Knies. Both players bring very different strengths, and the team\u2019s decision could go a long way in defining Matthews\u2019 success this season.<\/p>\n

For Maccelli, the opportunity feels like a second chance. The 24-year-old is coming off the worst season of his career<\/a>, but his 57 points in 82 games during 2023\u201324 remind everyone of the upside he still carries. If he can rediscover that form beside Matthews, Toronto\u2019s trade for him could look like a clear steal. The Maple Leafs believe he has the playmaking ability\u201438 and 40 assists before last season proved it. And he has never played alongside a scorer as dangerous as Matthews.<\/p>\n

Related: Maple Leafs News & Rumours: Robertson\u2019s Fight, Pacioretty\u2019s Fit & Cowan\u2019s Challenge<\/a><\/p>\n

Knies, however, continues to climb with each season in Toronto. Bigger, stronger, and more confident, he\u2019s expected to take on more offensive responsibility in Marner\u2019s absence. While he may not bring Maccelli\u2019s passing touch, Knies supplies the size, edge, and versatility that coaches value in a top-line role. In truth, the most realistic outcome might be a blend: Knies providing the power game from the left, Maccelli adding playmaking from the right, and Matthews benefiting from both. If that balance works, Toronto might ease the loss of Marner more quickly than anyone expected.<\/p>\n

Item Two: Should the Maple Leafs Offer Robby Fabbri a PTO?<\/p>\n

One suggestion I read recently is that the Maple Leafs could bring in veteran forward Robby Fabbri<\/a> on a professional tryout (PTO). The idea makes some sense given Toronto\u2019s current roster construction. Fabbri, 29, not only won a Stanley Cup with the St. Louis Blues in 2019 but did so under the leadership of current Maple Leafs coach<\/a> Craig Berube. That connection could give him an edge in quickly fitting into the system and earning trust from the staff.<\/p>\n

\"RobbyRobby Fabbri, Anaheim Ducks (Jess Starr<\/a>\/The Hockey Writers)<\/p>\n

While recent signings like Nic Roy, Dakota Joshua, and Michael Pezzetta<\/a> are more naturally suited for bottom-six roles, Fabbri could provide valuable competition for a higher spot in the lineup. His versatility as both a winger and center makes him a useful depth piece, and his ability to chip in some secondary offensive\u2014eight goals and eight assists in 44 games last season\u2014would give Toronto a boost if he can stay healthy.<\/p>\n

Related: 7 Maple Leafs to Watch at 2025 Prospect Showdown<\/a><\/p>\n

Of course, health remains the key question. Fabbri has battled multiple knee injuries throughout his career, but when fit, he\u2019s proven to be an offensive threat, once hitting 37 points in a season. A PTO would be a low-risk, high-reward gamble for the Maple Leafs. If he impresses, he adds depth and experience to the top nine. If not, Toronto can move on at no cost.<\/p>\n

Item Three: 3 Reasons Jacob Quillan Could Be a Surprise at Maple Leafs Camp<\/p>\n

Every year, players try to sneak onto the radar at training camp and force the Maple Leafs to take a longer look. This fall, Jacob Quillan could be that player. There are a few reasons to watch the youngster.<\/p>\n

First, he has already had a taste of the NHL. Quillan made his debut last January against the Ottawa Senators, and while the night ended early due to injury, it gave him a glimpse of the speed and strength required at the top level. That experience, however brief, has fueled his drive to return\u2014and stay.<\/p>\n

Second, his American Hockey League (AHL) production suggests steady growth. With 37 points in 67 games for the Toronto Marlies last season, Quillan showed he can contribute offensively<\/a> while working on the defensive details Toronto wants from its depth forwards. His willingness to round out his game makes him more than just a scorer-in-waiting.<\/p>\n

Related: 7 Cool Things About Maple Leaf Shane Doan<\/a><\/p>\n

Finally, he has an organizational belief on his side. Marlies head coach John Gruden reportedly told Quillan he hoped not to see him back in the AHL this season. That\u2019s a decisive vote of confidence. If Quillan carries his hard-working approach into camp and shows well at the Prospect Showdown, he could be the unexpected name that pushes his way into the Maple Leafs\u2019 roster conversation.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s Next for the Maple Leafs?<\/p>\n

The camp battles ahead will define Toronto\u2019s season. If Maccelli and Knies can give Matthews reliable support, the Maple Leafs won\u2019t have to overcompensate for Marner\u2019s absence. If Fabbri\u2014or someone like him\u2014emerges from a PTO, it could add valuable depth at minimal cost. And if Quillan surprises, it would give the team another young option pushing for a role.<\/p>\n

The Maple Leafs are entering a season of transition, but also opportunity. For the first time in a while, the roster feels open to change. That\u2019s risky, but it could also unlock a new identity under coach Berube. Camp will tell us which players seize the moment and which stories carry into the regular season.<\/p>\n

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