New season, same heartbreak. In this episode, we break down the Leafs’ Game 7 loss and what went wrong in their series with the Panthers, after the disappointing end to their latest rollercoaster playoff run. From a lack of urgency and low shot totals to another rough start that set the tone early, the frustration is real — and Leafs Fans are feeling it!

While the players definitely bear the brunt of this, we also take a hard look at some of the coaching decisions, especially around player lineups, and how injuries once again played a major role in derailing playoff hopes. The outside noise from critics and media is only growing louder, and with expectations still sky-high (and rightfully so), many in Leafs Nation are left asking: Where do we go from here?

The conversation gets real as we talk about what needs to change this offseason We also dive into the emotional connection fans have with this team, why the disappointment cuts so deep, and why, despite it all, the love for the Blue and White never fades.

If you’re frustrated, heartbroken, or just trying to make sense of it all — this one’s for you. Go Leafs Go!

👉 Tap follow, leave a review, and join us for honest Leafs talk every week. #LeafsForever #NHLPlayoffs #GoLeafsGo #TorontoMapleLeafs

00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement
01:53 Disappointing Game Seven Recap
05:58 Team Mindset and Coaching Adjustments
10:11 Injuries and Their Impact on Performance
14:12 Criticism from Opponents and Media
18:00 Fan Expectations and Team Performance
22:00 Looking Ahead: Offseason Decisions

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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We're back—and now streaming on hockeyhotstove.com! In this episode, we break down the highs, lows, and head-scratchers of the Leafs’ playoff performance, as they are in the thick of it versus the Florida Panthers in this 2nd round series. Joseph Woll has been thrown into the fire with a tough goaltending assignment, while the team continues to struggle with scoring in key moments.

Penalties sure disrupted the Leafs momentum in game 4, and Auston Matthews is getting heat despite his strong defensive play, but Tanev’s toughness has been a game-changer—and we’re here for it! The Leafs as a unit will need to take their cue from this tenacious D'man if they hope to come out on top in this now best of three showdown.

We also shine a light on the community side of the game. We were delighted to have welcomed Ultimate Leafs Fan Mike Wilson on with us to talk about an important fundraising initiative he is championing in support of a cure for ALS; one that that hockey fans will definitely want to get involved with! Of course, while he was with us we also got his thoughts on the Leafs vs Panthers series, and chatted about his experiences following the Blue and White on the road. We could've talked to Mike for hours, as he has some incredible stories!

The playoffs are all about momentum swings, and the Leafs have allowed the Panthers to get some. A quick start and taking our game to them will be the key to getting it back. Go Leafs Go!

00:00 Introduction and Podcast News
01:12 Recap of the Leafs vs. Panthers Series
06:42 Goaltending Challenges and Player Performances
14:01 Criticism of Key Players and Team Dynamics
22:48 Insights from the Ultimate Leafs Fan, Mike Wilson
25:32 The Toughness of Chris and Team Dynamics
30:11 Game Strategy and Player Composure
32:04 Charity Initiatives and Community Support
41:04 The Ultimate Leafs Fan Experience
49:05 Fan Engagement and Game Atmosphere
52:41 Predictions and Superstitions for the Series

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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The Leafs are moving on! We love that we get to talk about the Leafs in Round 2 of the playoffs after winning their 1st round series vs. the Ottawa Senators in 6 games! Round #2 is going to be a much tougher opponent vs. the Florida Panthers!

In this episode, we put a bow on Toronto’s first-round win over the Ottawa Senators and look ahead to a tough matchup against the Florida Panthers. From Anthony Stolarz’s solid playoff debut to Simon Benoit stepping up big time, the boys in blue are finding their stride—but will it be enough?

Before we move on to Florida we wanted to celebrate some of the key performances that were instrumental in getting us past the first round, with a special Playoff LTL Highlight Reel! We had a defenceman doing their best impression of Bobby Orr, a stand out goaltending debut, and a young, imposing power forward, all stepping up to help seal the deal!

We then welcome our insider Mike Augello who joined us to discuss what went well, and what didn't vs the Sens, the impact of the Leafs' improved defense, and why special teams and composure could make or break the next series. Will Ryan Reaves make an appearance, bringing the grit needed against Florida’s physical play? Can the power play deliver under pressure? And what happens if Stolarz slips—will Joseph Woll be ready?

Join us for playoff insights, a few laughs, and all things Leafs as the second round heats up! Go Leafs Go!

00:00 Introduction and Community Appreciation
03:09 Charity Initiative for ALS Awareness
06:09 Playoff Highlights: Leafs vs Senators
08:56 Analysis of the Senators Series
12:11 Previewing the Second Round Against the Panthers
28:32 Learning from Past Mistakes
30:11 The Importance of Composure
33:34 The Role of Physicality in Playoffs
34:08 Goaltending Dynamics: Stolarz vs. Wall
39:01 Series Predictions and Key Factors
42:25 Emerging Players and Their Impact
46:19 Critique of NHL Playoff Format

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The Toronto Maple Leafs are just one win away from sending the Ottawa Senators packing, and in this episode, we’re breaking down all the action. The Leafs' have so far showed a lot of composure under pressure and seem to have taken Coach Berube's message to heart. Add strong defensive play and elite goaltending to this mix and you have what should be a recipe for success in this first round and hopefully the makings of a long playoff run.

But it's not all smooth sailing. We've been talking for some time about the critical importance of depth scoring if the Leafs hope to make a deep playoff push, and we seem to be getting some of that. But, as fans, we feel that we are still needing more from our big guns, and are looking for Matthews, Marner and Nylander to elevate their games even more.

We wrap up the show with a look at a couple of the other series in progress. The playoff energy is absolutely buzzing — especially over in Montreal! With coaching strategies front and centre, we also ask the tough question: If Edmonton should fall in this first round, will it be time for a new voice behind the bench to take this team to the next level?

Game 5 is now upon us and its crunch time for the Leafs! If we are to believe that the ghosts of the past have gone and they've truly bought in to Berube's process, it's time to change the narrative. It's felt a little different so far, so for now we are choosing to Beleaf! Go Leafs Go!

👉 Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your fellow Leafs fans!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Playoff Excitement
02:50 NHL Awards and Leaf Considerations
05:56 Team Composure and Coaching Influence
09:05 Defensive Contributions and Player Performances
12:01 Offensive Needs from Star Players
15:04 Game Four Analysis and Key Moments
17:57 Referee Interactions and Leadership
20:56 Media Commentary and Fan Reactions
23:59 Other Playoff Series Highlights
26:53 Oilers vs Kings Analysis
29:51 Conclusion and Future Expectations

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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Round 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs got going on Sunday night for the Leafs with a big win in Game #1 over the Ottawa Senators!

In this episode, we break down everything from Anthony Stolarz’s rock-solid performance between the pipes to the power play finally clicking (3 for 6, baby!). Marner and Tavares showed up in a big way, and it wasn’t just the stars—every line was buzzing with chemistry.

We also dive into how the coaching change is clearly paying off, why this year’s playoff vibe feels different, and how the crowd’s electric energy helped set the tone. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves—staying cool, calm, and collected is going to be key with the Sens looking to make some adjustments.

Whether you bleed blue or just love playoff hockey, this is one post-game breakdown you won’t want to miss. Go Leafs Go!

Chapters

00:00 Game Overview and Initial Impressions
02:57 Goaltending Performance and Team Calmness
06:03 Star Players Shine
09:04 Power Play Success
11:48 Team Dynamics and Player Contributions
15:00 Looking Ahead and Crowd Energy

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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The Leafs start April with a couple of wins - a big one vs. Florida Panthers and a shutout win vs. Columbus Blue Jackets.

But before we get into the Leafs news of the day, we get things started by paying some attention to a historic moment unfolding in NHL history as Alex Ovechkin hits yet another milestone, cementing his legacy in the league. Closer to home, our Maple Leafs are heating up at just the right time—clinching a playoff spot for the ninth consecutive season and holding a strong position in the Atlantic Division.

We break down the key factors behind the Leafs' momentum: Anthony Stolarz's standout performances between the pipes, Auston Matthews' late-season surge, and Nick Robertson's resilience and impact even after being scratched. With player health and peak performance more crucial than ever, we look at what it’ll take to go deep this postseason.

Next, we give a shout out to our latest Star of the Week: Stolie the Goalie, Anthony Stolarz! With a huge win on Wednesday night vs. his former team the Florida Panthers, and getting his second shutout of the season vs the Blue Jackets, he looks confident and big in the net giving the Buds a chance to win every night. For all this and more he has earned our weekly honours!

Well folks, we are heading into the home stretch, where every division win matters as the team eyes a powerful playoff push. The excitement is building—and Leafs Nation is ready. Go Leafs Go!

Chapters

00:00 NHL Milestones and Records
02:59 Leafs Recent Performances and Key Players
06:01 Global Fan Engagement and Community
08:58 Game Highlights and Player Contributions
12:04 Goaltending Dynamics and Playoff Preparations
15:03 Upcoming Challenges and Team Strategy

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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It’s April and the NHL season is winding down! A lot of excitement and some anxious times ahead for us Leaf fans as we head towards the playoffs! In this episode, we break down everything you need to know as the Leafs gear up for the postseason!

To start things off we introduce you a few new players the team has signed from the NCAA free agent pool. Then, in this week’s edition of the Highlight Reel, we’re shining the spotlight on three standout players who not only lit up the scoreboard but also hit major milestones along the way!

Then, for The Third Period, insider Mike Augello joins the conversation to dish out insights on the team’s biggest question marks—goaltending struggles, defensive pairings, and what’s next for Morgan Rielly. We also pick Mike's brain on the Leafs' defensive strategies, contract talks for Matthew Knies and Mitch Marner, and what these decisions mean for the team’s future. And, of course, this episode would not be complete without a look at the Leafs' playoff path and why winning the Atlantic is crucial to their playoff success.

With only 8 games to go, the team's playoff destiny is very much in their own hands. The three remaining games versus the Panthers and the Lightning will undoubtedly tell the tale. Go Leafs Go!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Season Overview
02:02 Free Agent College Signings
04:12 Highlight Reel Moments
09:14 Road to the Playoffs with Mike Agello
15:49 Goaltending Dilemmas
21:24 Defensive Pairings and Playoff Performance
23:34 Morgan Rielly's Performance and Future
30:09 Defensive Pairing Strategies and Adjustments
39:36 Contract Talks and Future of Key Players
41:53 Playoff Predictions and Team Dynamics

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Dan Robson, Senior Writer, The Athletic - How much more can a fan base endure? https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5870494/2024/10/28/toronto-maple-leafs-nhl-playoffs-failure/

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https://editorinleaf.com/william-nylander-is-underappreciated-despite-3rd-straight-40-goal-season-01jq95bwecqt

https://www.hockeyfeed.com/nhl-news/offer-sheet-coming-to-toronto

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