Toronto Maple Leafs: 4 predictions for the 2018-19 season

Leafs reach Stanley Cup Finals

Despite the NHL having one of the worst playoff formats, Toronto can make it easier on themselves if they make it a priority to win the Atlantic division.

Last season, the Tampa Bay Lightning got the easier matchup against the New Jersey Devils in the first round by winning the Atlantic, while the Leafs and Bruins went through a gruelling seven-game series then not Boston having enough in the tank against Tampa Bay.

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Depending on who makes it out of the Metropolitan division, the Leafs could have the favourable matchup to get to the Cup finals but the real test obviously is winning a playoff round which they haven’t done since 2004.

The last two trips to the postseason, the Leafs got to Game 7 but if they want to get over the hump, having a sense of urgency in the regular season and making things easier on themselves will go a long way.

Had they earned home ice advantage against the Bruins it could have kept them from falling behind 3-1 in the series and having to claw back to force Game 7. Knowing Babcock and the veteran players like Tavares and Marleau, they’ll try to keep the focus on the Leafs keeping the foot on the gas and avoid making things tougher on themselves.

Whether they win the Stanley Cup or not is tough to say considering how strong the contending teams in the Western Conference are but the Leafs are a top contender in the Eastern Conference but will have to earn a trip to the Finals.

What are your Leafs predictions for this season and who are you looking forward to watching? Let us know in the comments below.