In this edition of the hotstove we discuss whether the Toronto Maple Leafs are ready to seriously contend for a playoff spot this season.
Todd Cordell I predicted the Leafs would make the playoffs before the season and, while they have just five points in five games, I'm more confident now than I was a couple weeks ago.
The Leafs have been pretty good in possession and are controlling ~54% of the scoring chances at 5 v 5, which puts them 5th in the NHL. Despite having just one win to their name they could have easily won every game.
Obviously holding leads has been a problem for them but that's on the goaltending as much as anything (they have an .880 team save percentage). It's also worth mentioning teams that get big leads and blow them are often better than teams who fall behind the 8-ball and pull a rabbit out of their hat.
The Leafs have played more good hockey than bad so, if that continues, the results will come.
James Tanner Yes for sure they can contend for the Playoffs - but so can every team not legitimately one of the five or six worst in the league.
I think the Leafs are a legit #1 stud (i.e a top 10 or so NHL Dman) away from being a really, really good team.
The Leafs are possibly a playoff team, and I think they can be since their rookies only stand to get better from here. And for sure Andersen isn't as bad as he's been.
However, it all depends on how what roster moves they make and how quickly the kids develop. At this point I'll settle for them being the most fun team to watch in the league.
Matt Henderson Not a chance in hell. The reason is because they have kids in important positions and not enough quality vets to make up for it. Hey, I've played this game before. It's not my first rodeo. As talented as the Leafs are, and make no mistake they have talent, it is an uphill struggle to win in the NHL.
Give this group a few more years as is or have an offseason where some really important vets are added. Not just glue guys, but honest to goodness top 4 defenders and top 6 forwards.
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