The Toronto Maple Leafs went into Buffalo tonight and came away with two points which gave them the Atlantic Division and a first-round opponent that fans will enjoy.
Going into tonight’s game against the Buffalo Sabres, the Toronto Maple Leafs had a golden opportunity to secure themselves the Atlantic Division.
All they needed to do was get to overtime and secure a point. This would give them the lead they need to keep the Tampa Bay Lightning at bay with just one game to go.
That is exactly what the Leafs managed to do as they defeated the Buffalo Sabres in an exceptionally close game. In fact, it took almost two full periods before the first goal was scored.
Toronto Maple Leafs to play the Ottawa Senators
That first goal just so happened to be scored by none other than Steven Lorentz who has been sensational on the fourth line this season.
We also saw a goal from Mitch Marner, who now has 100 points on the season for the first time in his career.
Meanwhile, securing the Atlantic Division now means we finally know who the Leafs will play in the first-round of the NHL playoffs.
The Battle of Ontario is officially a go as the Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators will meet each other. It is going to be amazing to watch and we can’t imagine what the atmosphere will be like.
This is the best shot the Leafs have had to win it all in quite some time and it is cool to see this team dominating the ice and playing a fantastic stretch of hockey.
No one would have predicted an Atlantic Division win at the start of the season, but they came through and showed the NHL that they have the skill and maturity to do it.
Now, they must keep the good times rolling otherwise fans are going to be deeply upset. The playoff failures are unacceptable. Now, they must turn the tide and prove they are capable of being a cup contender.