Regardless of not enjoying a recreation on Friday, the Toronto Maple Leafs have clinched a playoff berth after the Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals each misplaced, turning into the third Canadian group to take action.
They may’ve clinched a spot within the post-season on Wednesday had they gotten a minimum of some extent in opposition to the Tampa Bay Lightning, however they’d go on to lose the sport 4-1. The Maple Leafs are presently 43-23-9 with seven video games to go.
This would be the eighth 12 months in a row that they’ve certified for the post-season and fifth with coach Sheldon Keefe operating the bench.
After lastly getting the monkey off their again final 12 months, taking down the Tampa Bay Lightning within the first spherical, they misplaced in 5 video games to the Florida Panthers.
Ought to the standings keep put the remainder of the best way, they’ll have a rematch with these Panthers within the first spherical, with Florida holding the home-ice benefit. On the opposite facet of the Atlantic first spherical can be extra acquainted foes within the Lightning and Bruins squaring off.
