I think all it needs is time. If you are like most of the rest of the country, you experienced a rather brutal winter and that can be hard on newly planted or yet-to-be-established trees. Just give it the care it needs (pretty much just watering as necessary) and be patient. Although I don't know what passes as "normal" weather any more, with a more typical winter and time, your tree should be fine.

Some die back is normal with any Asian maple and that can be removed whenever it becomes apparent.

I agree. Winter was the problem. Time is the solution.

Linda

Thank you for the reassurance. I dearly love this tree, as it was planted in memory of my father. I will try my best to be patient.