"Most - Leafs, least - Habs": NHL fans debate which Atlantic Division team has improved the most this offseason

Every offseason, each NHL team is tasked with improving. No matter if they're the defending champions or a team in the running to get the top overall pick, they're trying to improve at least a little bit for the next season. There are always places to get better on every team, and even more so on those who missed the playoffs.

The NHL posted the question: Among NHL Atlantic Division teams, which ones made the biggest strides this offseason? The options include the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators, and Florida Panthers.

Did the Maple Leafs improve? (image credit: IMAGN)

With nine teams part of the options, the answers varied. The Panthers won the Stanley Cup Final and each franchise on the post are trying to chase them and fans discussed who did the best job at improving.

"I think it really depends on the growth of the young stars. Did teams improve based off FA signings? Then I would say Detroit," one fan said.

“'The Buffalo Sabres are a young, improving team that should be battling for a playoff spot.' Every preseason guide for the last 15 years," another fan joked.

"Not the Red Wings! They are taking a step back! Yzerman every single off season sits around, sipping Margheritas while other teams acquire more experienced talent," another chimed in.

"Sens! Stats indicate that had they had just average goaltending, they would have been a playoff team. Add in Ullmark alone and this is a playoff team," one added.

Time will tell which team had the most successful offseason, as NHL fans could hardly agree on who should be much better this year.

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NHL analysts says Toronto is most-improved among Atlantic Division teams

The Toronto Maple Leafs were a good team in 2023 as it made the playoffs once again. They've been a playoff team for eight straight seasons. However, the team understands the need to improve, which was addressed by moves this offseason. One NHL analyst believes they improved the most out of all Atlantic Division teams.

Former NHL coach Bruce Boudreau said on NHL Network:

"I really like what they did with their defense. Especially when you get Tanev. Oliver Ekman-Larsson, when he's at his best, he's still a really good defenseman. These guys are really good players and Toronto's already got the offense," Boudreau said.

He added that the Maple Leafs, as long as they have the defense they need, can make it out of the first round and even further.