The best thing about the 2024/25 NHL schedule being released earlier this week is that we now have some marquee dates to look forward to on the calendar.

Having said that, once again, there’s been plenty of roster turnover, which means there’s a new batch of players primed for revenge. For some reason, the Leafs always seem to get the very best from their former players. Hell, even Pierre Engvall scored against them last season. It’s comical at this point.

At this point, it would be in your best interest to brew up a parlay in favour of this unfortunate trend continuing. Translation: Brace yourselves for a Noah Gregor eruption when the Sens come into town.

Here’s a list of dates:

Indisputably, Keefe’s return to Scotiabank Arena will be the headlining act. The 43-year-old was canned in May following Toronto’s latest first round exit. In five seasons at the helm, the former Leaf only managed to win one playoff series. Just a few weeks after his dismissal, Keefe latched on with a much-improved New Jersey Devils squad. In all seriousness, the Jack Adams could be in his crosshairs.

After that, there definitely will be some interest in Ilya Samsonov’s first game back after two rollercoaster campaigns in Toronto. On the first day of free agency, the 27-year-old inked a one-year deal to play for Vegas. Their blue line is very solid, and Bruce Cassidy is one of the best coaches in the league. Just remember: Adin Hill was able to win a Stanley Cup in that system. Needless to say, it was a smart decision to sign in Sin City.

Meantime, undoubtedly, there will be some extra juice behind Connor Bedard’s second NHL visit to the mecca of hockey. In total, T.J. Brodie spent four seasons with the Maple Leafs. He was very steady for the first two, not so much for the final two. Additionally, Tyler Bertuzzi may have spent just one year with the blue and white, but there’s no question that he will be missed —especially by his teammates. There was mutual interest from both parties, but unfortunately, they couldn’t come together on a new deal.