The Toronto Maple Leafs are going to the postseason for the ninth consecutive year, the longest active playoff streak in the NHL after the Boston Bruins (eight seasons) failed to qualify in 2024–25.
Toronto (102 points) also clinched home ice in the first round of the playoffs on Saturday night, though the team is still seeking the top spot in the Atlantic Division. They hold a four-point lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning (98 points) and Florida Panthers (98 points) heading into action on Sunday.
It's been another successful regular season for the Maple Leafs, one they hope, under new coach Craig Berube, will finally translate into a deep playoff run. Many players and members of the organization have played pivotal roles in a potential division title, but some have stood out above the rest.
Here are the five most impressive Toronto Maple Leafs from the 2024-25 regular season.
5 most impressive Toronto Maple Leafs this season
#1. Mitch Marner
Mitch Marner has consistently been the Maple Leafs' most valuable player this season. The 28-year-old is approaching his first career 100-point season, with 98 points (26 goals, 72 assists) through 78 games thus far.
Marner's point production, defensive game and ability to be very effective on both the power play and penalty kill have been invaluable for Toronto. He has been a do-it-all player for Berube.
#2. McCabe-Tanev shutdown pairing
Jake McCabe and Chris Tanev have formed the best shutdown defense pairing in the NHL in 2024-25. Both players own plus-minus ratings above plus-20 while consistently facing the opposition’s top lines.
While Tanev was originally brought in to play with Morgan Rielly, his chemistry with McCabe has proven to be an ideal fit. The duo will be one of Toronto's most important factors for success in the postseason.
#3. Anthony Stolarz
What a signing Anthony Stolarz has been for general manager Brad Treliving and the Maple Leafs. Having never been a full-time starter in the NHL, the two-year, $5 million contract Toronto gave the 31-year-old last summer raised eyebrows.
However, it has turned out to be a steal. The former Florida Panther has played at a Vezina Trophy-caliber level, posting sparkling numbers. While Joseph Woll has also been solid, it's evident that Berube trusts Stolarz in the biggest moments.
#4. William Nylander
You can't talk about the Maple Leafs without recognizing the elite play of William Nylander. The 28-year-old has continued to be his dynamic self, producing at over a point per clip for the third straight season with 83 points (44 goals, 39 assists) in 79 games on the campaign.
Nylander is a threat to score in every game and has elevated to another level in recent years. It should also be noted that he's tracking to play a full season, providing tremendous durability once again for the Leafs.
#5. Brad Treliving
Lastly, the work of general manager Brad Treliving deserves praise. The offseason signings of Chris Tanev, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and Anthony Stolarz have all been home runs, and trade deadline acquisition Brandon Carlo also looks to be a great fit on the blue line.
While Scott Laughton has not found his fit in Toronto just yet, it's hard to argue about a very capable third-line forward at just $1.5 million for the rest of this season and next.
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