#playoff-positioning

#playoff-positioning

To see them on the outside looking in, the Leafs have competed hard, played structured hockey at times, and stolen points they arguably shouldn't have. They have gotten key contributions from players you wouldn't expect, but still sit towards the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Effort alone won't save a season. The one problem the Leafs are running out of time to fix is game-to-game consistency, particularly at five-on-five.

At the midpoint of the 82-game grind, Lee believes the Islanders have done "some really good work," pointing to stretches of strong hockey and an ability to push through adversity that inevitably shows up over the first 41 games. Some opportunities were seized, others slipped away, but Lee views that as part of the process rather than a red flag.

The most significant development is the trade of veteran center Phillip Danault back to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a 2026 second-round draft pick. Danault, who had five points in 30 games this season, struggled to find his offensive rhythm compared to previous years. This move signals a potential shift in strategy for Los Angeles, clearing cap space and roster spots.

1. BIRMINGHAM (5-3): Receiver Paul Turner had four catches for 122 yards and three touchdowns, plus a 94-yard kickoff return for touchdown in win over Taft. 2. CARSON (5-3): The Colts shut out Banning 40-0 with Chris Fields completing eight of 13 passes for 154 yards and two touchdowns. 3. PALISADES (8-0): Dolphins got a scare against University last week and face Hamilton on Friday. 4. SAN PEDRO (4-4): Pirates get Carson tuneup with a Marine League game against Gardena on Friday.