Predicted Maple Leafs Lineup Tonight: Toronto's projected lines for preseason game against Canadiens | 26th Sept. 2024

The Toronto Maple Leafs host the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday in preseason action. With the game being at home, the Maple Leafs should play many of their key players.

Toronto is 0-2 in the preseason as the Maple Leafs lost both games to the Ottawa Senators. Despite it being just preseason, Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube was asked if it's time to panic.

"No, it's preseason," Berube said. "We're looking at preparing for the regular season. It's the second game. We're looking at young guys, we're looking at players. So, you know, that's what it's about."

Now, ahead of their third preseason game, here is what the Maple Leafs' lineup could look like Thursday night.

Predicted Maple Leafs lineup tonight

Forwards

• Matthew Knies - William Nylander - Mitch Marner
• Max Domi - John Tavares - Easton Cowan
• Nick Robertson - David Kampf - Pontus Holmberg
• Bobby McMann - Nick Abruzze - Ryan Reaves

Toronto captain Auston Matthews is dealing with a minor upper-body injury, which Berube said isn't serious:

"Just an upper-body thing. It's not serious. He should be fine."

Defenseman

• Jake McCabe - Chris Tanev
• Cade Webber - Timothy Liljegren
• Oliver Ekman-Larsson - Philippe Myers

The Maple Leafs will likely play some key starters on defense on Thursday. Toronto will take a look at Webber and Myers who are battling for a roster spot. They could also cement themselves as the top call-up should an injury happen this season.

Goalies

• Matt Murray
• Dennis Hildeby

Toronto's goalie lineup is set with Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz. How much the Maple Leafs want them to play going forward is to be seen, but Matt Murray should get run in this one.

Maple Leafs preseason schedule

Toronto's remaining preseason schedule is as follows:

• vs Montreal, Sept. 26
• @ Montreal, Sept. 28
• @ Detroit, Oct. 3
• vs Detroit, Oct. 5