The Auston Matthews era in Toronto kicked off with a bang in the 2016-17 season, as he, along with rookies William Nylander and Mitch Marner managed to lead the team to its first postseason berth since 2013. One year later and the Maple Leafs find themselves on the verge of cracking the playoffs for a second consecutive season. But before they start turning their attention toward mid-April, a couple of things need to work out in their favour.
Here’s what needs to happen: Toronto will clinch a spot if they defeat the Florida Panthers at home tonight AND the Philadelphia Flyers lose to the Colorado Avalanche in regulation. The Buds currently hold the third playoff spot in the Atlantic Division while Philadelphia is sitting in the first Wild-Card position.
Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals also have an opportunity to punch their ticket tonight. With a win over the New York Rangers and a Flyers loss to the Avalanche in regulation, they too will earn a trip to the playoffs. Washington currently leads the Metropolitan Division with 97 points.
The Winnipeg Jets became the first Canadian team (and likely the only other Canadian team) to officially qualify for playoff hockey following a thrilling 5-4 shootout victory over the Nashville Predators. A team North of the Border hasn’t won the Stanley Cup since the 1993 Montreal Canadians, but we could see an all-Canadian final based on what each franchise has displayed this season.
(H/T NHL)
