It's a great time to be a Toronto sports fan.  The Raptors are getting set for what could be another deep playoff run as they face the Bucks in the opening round of the playoffs.

The Jays season just started, which is great because they have a lot of time to right the ship, and of course the Leafs are in the playoffs for just the second time since the 2003-04 season.

 

 

A new hope for #Leafs fans officially starts tonight.

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Led by a trio of dynamic rookies, Toronto squeaked into the postseason as the last Wild Card team, and their reward for grinding their way to a playoff berth was an opening round date with the Presidents' Trophy winning Capitals.

Despite the odds and experience not being in Toronto's favour, the Buds came out flying to start Game 1 of the series Thursday night in Washington as Mitch Marner scored less than two minutes in.

The goal was significant for a number of reasons.  For starters, it quieted an electric crowd that immediately had 'first round exit' thoughts.

The goal was also the first by a Leafs teenager in nearly three decades.

Marois' goal against the Red Wings was in Game 5 of the series with the Leafs on the brink of elimination.

They won the game 6-5 in overtime, but ultimately lost the series in six games to Detroit.

We imagine Marner will have some company as the series goes on as Toronto's lineup is filled with rookies.

It's also filled with hope after getting to the Caps early, which is a great sign.

(H/T: ESPN Stats and Info)