Maple Leafs clinch first playoff berth since 2013 vs. Penguins
By David Rouben
The Toronto Maple Leafs clinched a playoff spot in Auston Matthews’ rookie season after beating the reigning Stanley Cup Champions.
This is not a typo: the Toronto Maple Leafs are a playoff team. They were the last NHL team to clinch a playoff berth, but they did it at home against the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins. There was no shortage of drama, either.
A lot of things had to go the Leafs’ way. After falling behind 3-2 in the third period, they needed Kasperi Kapanen – the player they acquired in exchange for Phil Kessel – to score the tying goal.
Toronto native Connor Brown scored the eventual game-winning goal, backup goalie Curtis McElhinney stoned Sidney Crosby in the last minute, then Auston Matthews scored his 40th goal of the season to seal it.
Even the most optimistic Leafs fan couldn’t have predicted they’d be in the playoffs at the start of the season. They did, after all, finish dead last a year ago. But full credit goes to the Leafs’ rookie trio, especially Matthews, who was dominant all season long. There’s no doubt he’s winning the Calder trophy this year, while Mike Babcock will likely win the Jack Adams for orchestrating this remarkable turnaround.
For the Leafs, their job isn’t done yet. They have one more regular season game left to play, against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and will be very important in determining their first round opponent. If they lose in regulation, they will face the Washington Capitals. If they get at least a point, they will play the Ottawa Senators.
The Leafs will no doubt play hard to try and avoid playing the best team in the NHL. The Senators are a team they’ve won four straight playoff series against, and facing them would reignite the Battle of Ontario.
Next: 5 reasons why the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs will be amazing
This is the first time the Leafs have clinched a playoff berth in an 82-game season since 2003-04. Moreover, the Leafs and Raptors are in the playoffs in the same year for the first time since 2002. It’s a great time to be a Toronto sports fan.