The Leafs went to California, picked up 5 of 6 points and had their pictures taken with Marty Moose at Wally World. Toronto's magic # to clinch a playoff spot is 1. The only team sitting outside of the playoffs that can mathematically catch Toronto is Columbus. The Jackets can max out at 95 points. Toronto sits on 94 as they wait for the Panthers to visit on Wednesday. Toronto entertains Columbus on Saturday. Florida has a trip to Montreal on Tuesday beforehand, Leafs will be tops in the Atlantic heading into that game. And after Sunday afternoons tilt between Habs and Panthers, there's a wee bit of animosity there. It's another must win for Montreal to keep their playoff hopes alive and to stay ahead of the Rangers.
Tavares point streak ended on Sunday, but he's still looking good for player of the month for March, his 13 goals during March Madness are tops in the NHL.
Steve Lorentz played the hero Sunday with a beautiful tip in for the winner in the third period. Woll was very steady, stopping 29 of 31 shots. It's nice to see that the Leafs have two goalies that you're very confident to be the starter in the playoffs.
Biggest thing for the Leafs over their final 8 games is to stay healthy. Playoff positioning is tough, pick your poison for the first round. Versus, Ottawa, Tampa or Florida is what it looks like. Montreal, Rangers, or Columbus will be the Capitals to deal with.
I'll be back Tuesday morning with another column and maybe talk about the Yankees bats.
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