Focus shifts to Kyle Dubas following another blown lead that ends in a loss for the Maple Leafs

We're only 10 games into the 2022-23 season, but things have been far from good for the Toronto Maple Leafs. It isn't just that the Leafs are 4-4-2 over that span, it's that they've dropped games to teams that contenders should be easily beating and, in some cases, have had leads in those games only to end up losing them anyway. Sunday night was another bleak loss as Toronto gave up a 3-1 lead to lose 4-3 to the Anaheim Ducks in overtime, another team the Leafs should have beaten. Now, it seems the focus is shifting to GM Kyle Dubas to take the blame.

"If you build a house with faulty materials, it will eventually come crumbling down in shambles," wrote Luke Fox, who covers the Leafs for Sportsnet, following the game.

"Yes, the Maple Leafs will dig out of this hole, maybe as early as Wednesday against a tired and injury-riddled Philadelphia Flyers team. Their shooting percentage will improve, and their high-end skill will find more nets."

"But after 10 games, after going 4-4-2 and deserving each of their six losses to teams that never made or survived Round 1 last spring, we've seen enough to say this roster ain't it," Fox continued.

"As currently constructed, the Maple Leafs may reach the playoffs — but they won't scare anyone when they get there."

That seems to be the MO of the Maple Leafs since it was declared the team was done their rebuild and ready to compete for a playoff spot and, subsequently, the Stanley Cup. The team can make the playoffs, but it can't seems to get out of the first round, no matter what changes are made during the offseason.

Fox also stated that Toronto head coach Sheldon Keefe is "grasping at straws" with the changes he's trying to make, although he insists Keefe is not the issue.

"This is a one-note club, and when they can't outscore their mistakes, all you're left with are mistakes," said Fox.

"Dubas sextupled down on his players and his philosophy in composing this team. Same plan expecting different results."

Back in 2017, Toronto fired head coach Mike Babcock in November for failing to live up to expectations with the retooled roster. At some point, you have to think Keefe is in danger as well, even if the losses can't be directly blamed on him. It should be another interesting season in Toronto. By the way, Fox pointed out that reporters asked for Dubas to speak following Sunday night's game. That request was denied by Leafs' PR.

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