Maple Leafs' playoff spot in jeopardy due to one specific thing

"After losing to the Detroit Red Wings at home on Wednesday night, the Toronto Maple Leafs now have a 7-9 record in extra time this year, which could end up being the difference in making the playoffs. Through 50 games, the Leafs have had 22 games decided by one goal. On one hand you could argue that playing so many tight games will help them down the stretch, while on the other hand, it shows that this team isn't a dominant offensive force anymore."

"During the Sheldon Keefe era, the Leafs were a much better regular season team who would rack up multiple three or four goal wins, but that doesn't seem to be the case with Craig Berube. Under his system, the game is much more tighter, lower scoring and a heavier burden on the team's defensive structure. Instead of outscoring the opponent with a powerful offense, the team is now reliant on winning these 2-1 or 3-2 games, which has resulted in a ton of overtimes."

"You'd think that a team with Auston Matthews, William Nylander, John Tavares, Matthew Knies, Max Domi and even Bobby McMann with some speed would lead to a ton of fun 3-on-3 chances, but the team has unfortunately lost more than they've won. As shown by their loss against Detroit, the first posession is so crucial and John Tavares' inability to win multiple draws in overtime essentially cost them the game."

The Toronto Maple Leafs are 7-9 in extra time through 50 games, with 22 one-goal games indicating frequent close results. The team has shifted from high-scoring outings under Sheldon Keefe to a tighter, lower-scoring approach under Craig Berube that emphasizes defensive structure. Reliance on 2-1 and 3-2 wins has produced many overtime games, but losing overtime decisions is costing secondary points. Overtime faceoffs and first possession are critical, with John Tavares' struggles in draws and mistakes like Easton Cowan's fall contributing to overtime defeats. Winning overtime points against Eastern Conference rivals is essential for playoff qualification.

Read at Editor In Leaf