By defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games, the Toronto Maple Leafs accomplished something they couldn’t do in 19 seasons and moved into the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Due to the many upsets in the first round, the majority of the Leafs Nation and the hockey community believed that this was the year to take advantage of the Leafs.
The Florida Panthers, who eliminated the Maple Leafs in five games, proved that it wasn’t meant to be.
Many people are speculating if this iteration of the Maple Leafs will have their last chance now that the season is over. Despite many opportunities, the core of Matthews, Marner, Tavares and Nylander has never quite progressed.
Not to add that Auston Matthews only has a year left on his current contract before he is released and becomes an NFL All-Star. Changes are inevitable, but if Matthews doesn’t sign a new contract, there could be decisions that have a significant impact on the organization.
“There is a great foundation here. A lot of faith in this group.”
John Tavares on the future. pic.twitter.com/uLXjdfdmpC
– TSN (TSN_Sports) May 13, 2023
Did we witness this group’s “last chance” in Toronto?
video: https://t.co/Uy9P1yPeaj pic.twitter.com/t9c0sbevRk
– TSN (TSN_Sports) May 13, 2023
Hayes: The Leafs deserve credit for winning the first round but all the other doubts remain
video: https://t.co/QNewzOYj99 pic.twitter.com/i5WNt2IqKd
– TSN (TSN_Sports) May 13, 2023