Pontus Holmberg Can Address Maple Leafs’ Defensive Problems

Last week, before the Tampa Bay Lightning game, the Toronto Maple Leafs recalled Pontus Holmberg from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. At the time, the move was made because Tyler Bertuzzi played through an injury in a recent game, and Holmberg would provide insurance in case Bertuzzi was unable to play in the next game. 

As it worked out, Bertuzzi played in that game and took his regular place in the team’s top-six units. Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe did some line re-jigging to create a third line consisting of center David Kampf with Matthew Knies and Max Domi on the wings. Holmberg became the fourth-line center with wingers Ryan Reaves and Noah Gregor.

Both lines worked well in that game. Holmberg brought defensive stability to the team’s fourth line and covered some of Reaves’ inconsistencies. He also fitted in well with Gregor’s speed and all-around game.

Now the question arises, what to do with Holmberg? The Swedish forward was a solid addition to the team’s fourth line.  In this post, I’ll make the point that he should be a player who fits the team’s needs and should be one choice to stick with the team this season.

Holmberg Is a Defensive Stalwart

Holmberg might not light up the scoreboard with flashy offensive plays, but what he brings to the team is equally, as valuable. As coach Keefe remarked last season, Holmberg’s distinguishing ability is that he makes few errors on the ice. He’s consistent and dependable, and these are key attributes for a high-performing bottom-six player – especially on the team’s fourth line.

One area where Holmberg shines is in penalty-killing situations. While scoring with the man advantage is crucial, having players who can effectively kill penalties provides a key survival aspect of a team’s overall defense. Holmberg’s defensive skills and his high hockey IQ make him an excellent penalty-killer. He can help his team survive without giving up a goal when they are down a player.

Holmberg Helps Fill Defensive Gaps and Enhances Defensive Strategy

Holmberg’s contribution to the team’s defense extends beyond just penalty killing. He’s a reliable complement for his teammates, covering some of the defensive shortcomings that might exist on the fourth line. While hockey is about scoring goals, it’s also about preventing the opposing team from scoring. Holmberg’s presence provides this security, allowing his teammates to focus on their own duties without leaving defensive gaps.

The impact of Holmberg on the Maple Leafs’ fourth line isn’t just about his individual performance. It’s also about how he contributes to the team’s overall defensive strategy. The restructured fourth line fans saw during the Lightning game, including Holmberg in the mix, added a new layer of stability to the team’s defense. While these particular fourth-line players might log fewer minutes than their teammates on the higher lines, they play a critical role in keeping the opposition off the score sheet.

Holmberg Makes Sense In Terms of the Maple Leafs’ Salary Cap

Holmberg also comes at an affordable cost for the Maple Leafs. His well-rounded game, strong skating abilities, and successful experience as the playoff MVP in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) make him a salary-cap-friendly option. As a fourth-line center, he offers versatility and reliability, giving him an advantage over other potential forwards in the lineup.

Considering Holmberg was a sixth-round pick in the 2018 draft, his rise has been quick. That coach Keefe has found it tough to find holes in Holmberg’s game highlights his strong play in aspects such as penalty killing, the team’s defense, and his offensive potential. He’s likely not yet finished his overall development.

The Bottom Line

Holmberg is a promising prospect who has the potential to make a significant impact on the Maple Leafs fourth line this season. His defensive reliability, balanced skill set, and calm on-ice presence make him a strong addition to the team’s roster. 

To strengthen the team’s depth, Holmberg (as well as other AHL players, in my opinion) should be given more chances to play this season. If the Maple Leafs will ice a more balanced team, it needs players such as Holmberg. He operates behind the scenes, mostly unnoticed by fans. However, his play could be essential to his team’s success as his defensive reliability adds a layer of stability to the Maple Leafs roster.

His contributions on the defensive end are vital. Whether it’s penalty killing or covering defensive shortcomings, his impact is important to the team. While he’s not yet going to be a cornerstone for the team, he can add to its success. I believe he’s a keeper for the Maple Leafs this season.