Adding John Tavares in the offseason left the Maple Leafs with increased expectations after being knocked out by the Bruins in Game 7 of the first round. Once again the Leafs brought a high-flying offense earning themselves the third spot in the Atlantic and tied for 7th overall. Unfortunately for them, they ran into the Bruins once again and found themselves losing in Game 7 for the second year in a row.

Additions: Jason Spezza, Tyson Barrie, Alex Kerfoot, Cody Ceci, Rasmus Sandin

Subtractions: Nazem Kadri, Jake Gardiner, Nikita Zaitsev, Patrick Marleau, Ron Hainsey, Garret Sparks, Connor Brown, Tyler Ennis, Calle Rosen, Igor Ozhiganov 

Forwards:

The biggest issue facing the Leafs this summer was locking up Mitch Marner long term. Regardless of anyone’s thoughts about the price they’re paying for their top-4 forwards, there’s no arguing that it is a lethal group.

Defense:

The Leafs gave up some of their center depth in order to shore up their defense this summer. Adding Tyson Barrie gives them added offensive punch but once again there are question marks about whether or not this core can play in their own zone.

Goalies:

It’s Freddie Andersen’s crease and he’s done a solid job over the last few years. He’ll be expected to continue his strong play but it’ll be hard to give him nights off. His backup Michael Hutchinson has yet to prove he can be relied on at the NHL level. 

The Point Prediction:

Could this be the year the Leafs finally break through to the second round? We’ve got them finishing 2nd in the Atlantic and 2nd overall meaning they’ll finally have home-ice advantage in case they meet the Bruins again in the first round.

(Photo by Eliot J. Schechter/NHLI via Getty Images)