2016-17 record: 40-27-15 (95 points)
Lost to Washington in Conference quarterfinals
Captain: TBA
Last season, the Toronto kicked off their centennial year with hope, and as they continue their celebration of 100 years in existence, hope is turning into expectation, and the window looks like it is just now opening. With a generational talent in Auston Matthews, several quality young players, and goaltending that keeps them in games, there is no reason to think that the pain that the Maple Leafs front office has been expecting will continue for much longer.
Sure, the fifth best offense begins with Matthews, but there are other players who made themselves known, as Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Connor Brown all made impact in their first season in the NHL. Meanwhile, Nazem Kadri established career highs in goals and points while James van Riemsdyk may be playing himself out of Toronto after this season not for his play, but for the fact that Toronto may not be able to afford him. That was why the Leafs hedged their bets that Patrick Marleau has at least three good years left in him. Defense is improving, but there were instances where the Leafs had to try to win 5-4 shootouts because the defense couldn't hold the fort long enough. Another year together plus the addition of Ron Hainsey and the return to health of Morgan Rielly can only help. In goal, Frederik Andersen showed cracks alongside the defense, but for the most part, he was everything the Leafs hoped they were getting and more. The power play reflected the team's offensive efforts and the penalty kill was surprisingly effective, although they will need to figure out a new shutdown tandem.
Prediction: 1st in the Atlantic Division
The Leafs tear down of a few years has already produced a playoff appearance and though they say they're still rebuilding, it's tough to keep that hand for as long as Matthews does his impersonation of Jonathan Toews, as he is a game changer and the rest of the team is likely to follow suit. The Leafs may have finally figured it out and championships are not too far off in the future.
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