How the Maple Leafs set themselves up for their first division title since 2000, and the question marks remaining ahead of the playoffs -- Leafs Notebook
Briefly

As the Maple Leafs approach the end of the regular season, they need just one point to secure first place in the Atlantic Division. This achievement is significant due to potential playoff matchups; finishing first could lead to facing a less experienced Senators team, rather than the powerful Stanley Cup champions. With heightened competition in the Atlantic, having clinched five playoff berths shows the division's strength. The Leafs have improved their goaltending performance this season, raising expectations for their playoff potential after a solid regular season.
Finish second, and the first-round matchup is against the reigning Stanley Cup Champions who have been to back-to-back finals, been a thorn in the Leafs' side for years.
Goaltending was a huge question mark heading into the season, as neither Leafs goalie started even 30 games in a single NHL season before this year.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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