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/

https://www.ultimateleafsfan.com/books

https://hockeyhotstove.com/ladies-talkin-leafs/

https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/matthews-marner-dont-have-more-wendel-gilmour

https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/leafs-thoughts-auston-matthews-must-take-the-lead-with-series-tied-2-2/

https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/latest-news/kept-us-in-it-until-the-end-maple-leafs-joseph-woll-shines-with-impressive-start-despite-game-4-loss-to-panthers

https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/got-shoot-puck-maple-leafs-170018345.html

https://theleafsnation.com/news/craig-berube-bobby-mcmann-simplify-game-blue-paint

https://theleafsnation.com/news/craig-berube-wants-joseph-woll-more-direct-moving-puck