Sign of spring #2: the Maple Leafs almost make the playoffs
Sign of spring #2: the Maple Leafs almost make the playoffs
This has become an annual tradition in the city. The Toronto Maple Leafs put together an unlikely late-season run at the playoffs, teasing fans with the false hope that this year will be the year. Of course, the ending is always the same: the team sputters at exactly the wrong time and, once again, fails to turn the dream into reality. Sigh.
Alright, so after 43 seasons without even a spot in the finals and 7 years of early season exits, why is it so surprising? I will admit that the blind faith of “Leaf Nation” is admirable, it is still a team that is doomed for failure.
Let us assume that James Reimer Beats the Sophomore jinx and plays just as well in the 2011-2012 season. There are a few teams in the Eastern Conference that have shown much improvement and will be tough to play against as well. The Carolina Hurricane and The Ottawa Senators (yeah yeah I know the dreaded Ottawa team) are also playing a better overall game and also have hopes to make the playoffs next year. As well, the above mentioned teams have been to the playoffs a heck of a lot more times than the Blue and White in the last decade.
In conclusion, Brian Burke’s five year plan is almost up and I fear that the Maple Leafs will fail to make the playoffs next year as well. 10th place repeat if they are lucky.