The Toronto Maple Leafs have been one of the most successful teams in the NHL during the regular season in recent years. However, their playoff performances have often been disappointing, as they have consistently failed to progress past the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs since 2013—except for one instance.
A rare moment of playoff triumph came in 2023 when then-captain John Tavares scored a dramatic game-winning goal against Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. This goal ended a long drought and sent Toronto to the second round for the first time since 2004. However, their postseason run was short-lived, as they were eliminated by the Florida Panthers in just five games.
The following season, Toronto found itself facing familiar heartbreak. Once again, they were eliminated in the first round, this time at the hands of the Boston Bruins in another Game 7 loss at TD Garden. With this painful history in mind, the team aimed to make substantial improvements heading into the current season, hoping for a deep playoff run.
To bolster their roster, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving made two key acquisitions before the trade deadline. The team secured forward Scott Laughton from the Philadelphia Flyers and later acquired defenseman Brandon Carlo from the Boston Bruins.
In addition to Laughton, Toronto also received a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and a sixth-round pick in 2027. The cost for Laughton’s services included prospect Nikita Grebenkin and a conditional first-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. Meanwhile, to obtain Carlo, the Maple Leafs sent Boston forward Fraser Minten, a top-five protected first-round pick in 2026, and a fourth-round selection in 2025.
Toronto’s Reasons for Optimism After the Trade Deadline
With these additions, the Maple Leafs have bolstered their depth, which they hope will help them advance past the first round for just the second time since 2004. Carlo, known as a reliable puck-moving defenseman, can log significant minutes on the blue line, while Laughton provides defensive responsibility and depth to the forward group.
Laughton’s transition to Toronto has not been seamless. To maximize his effectiveness, head coach Craig Berube adjusted the lineup, moving him to a line with Steven Lorentz and Calle Järnkrok. The goal was to create a checking line that could bring intensity and defensive stability. Berube emphasized the importance of elevating the team’s battle level and urgency, stating that while players were frustrated, their competitiveness was a positive sign.
Carlo Brings Valuable Playoff Experience
Carlo, a seasoned playoff performer with over 70 games of postseason experience, brings a strong physical presence at 6’5” and 220 lbs. Having already played in a high-pressure market like Boston, he understands the challenges of playing in Toronto and the expectations that come with it.
Carlo has acknowledged the adjustment period required when joining a new team but has praised his new teammates for making the transition easier. He highlighted their confidence and professionalism, which he aims to emulate.
As the playoffs approach, it will be up to Laughton, Carlo, and the rest of the Maple Leafs to capitalize on their potential and prove that this season can finally be different. Their exact playoff seeding and first-round opponent remain uncertain, but expectations in Toronto are as high as ever.