They really should replace the motto in the Leaf dressing with "The False Hope That Unites Us All". Although I could have made the announcement following the twin losses to the Islanders, let's make it official. THE LEAFS CANNOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. It's now 42 years with no Stanley Cup.
The standings are deceiving because over the past month it has appeared as if there are multiple teams fighting for playoff spots in the East and West. It's all a mirage in the era of single points for losses. Only Buffalo and Nashville are actually still chasing playoff spots but with Buffalo's depleted defense, they are dead as well.
So when the Leafs gave up a single point to the Flyers last night it was officially over. That is why Paul Marurice pulled his goalie in a tied game. The Flyers who have earned 15 points in the last 12 games have 12 games remaining. They are on track to finish with points. The Leafs have 72 points with 11 games remaining. Did I mention the Leafs' longest winning streak this season is only 3 games. So the Leafs are on pace to lock up 9th spot in the East.
However, you have to give the team credit for not packing it in and playing some entertaining hockey this past month. It's been entertaining hockey but not good hockey. In the past 4 games they have averaged 45 shots per game but lost 2 games and needed 3 goals last night and overtime to squeak out a win. Their defense is still horrible and they still shoot themselves in the foot by giving away the puck in their own end. Their defense needs a serious makeover but with 3 no-trade mega-contracts on the blueline, Cliff Fletcher and his successor will have their hands full.
