Where will the Leafs finish?
The Leafs enviable depth at forward, improved defense, and potential in goal give them a realistic shot at winning their division. The team has yet to win the Atlantic during the Matthews-Marner era. Two second-place finishes, and the home-ice advantage that comes with it, have been the highlight.
This golden era of regular season success and eight consecutive playoff seasons has been overshadowed by playoff disappointments. The Leafs star players are now all in their prime years with an optimum window of 3-4 more years to win a championship.
Sorting out a fourth line, further improving the defense, and Berube showing his players the way to playoff success are obstacles the Maple Leafs need to overcome.
Regardless of the weaknesses, there is a lot to like with this team. The Leafs are loaded at forward. A healthy Woll and Matthew Knies continuing his growth make them even more dangerous. The defense, while still having warts, should be better.
Combine all of that with the injection of energy and a new beginning under Berube, the Leafs are primed for success. Their biggest division rivals have problems, too.
The Bruins forwards look weak. The Lightning are dealing with the loss of their long-time captain. The Panthers might take awhile to get going after winning the Stanley Cup and suffering the loss of some key players.
Winning the Atlantic provides the best path to winning in the playoffs. The time is right for the Toronto Maple Leafs to take first place in their division. It says here, that they do. Berube and his players will be hard at work between now and next spring to make sure it's not their only accomplishment.