For the first time since early January, the Toronto Maple Leafs have strung together back-to-back wins - a much-needed spark as they head into a critical stretch. But before anyone starts printing playoff banners, let’s pump the brakes.
Yes, the wins came against Vancouver and Calgary, but those two clubs are currently among the NHL’s basement dwellers. The real test comes next: a showdown in Edmonton that should tell us a lot more about where this team truly stands.
Toronto’s recent 4-2 win over Calgary wasn’t just another tick in the win column - it was a statement game for a few key players. William Nylander, who has a personal connection to Calgary from his early childhood, played like he was right at home.
He registered a goal and two assists, continuing to be a steady offensive force for the Leafs. Meanwhile, Joseph Woll turned in a strong performance between the pipes, stopping 28 shots and helping Toronto secure the win without needing a single power play - the third time in four games that the Leafs didn’t get a man advantage.
That lack of power play time hasn’t gone unnoticed, but head coach Craig Berube wasn’t interested in stirring the pot postgame. He kept his comments brief, choosing to focus on the positives.
And there have been plenty of those lately - especially considering the Leafs are now 24-5-1 in their last 30 games without Morgan Rielly in the lineup. That’s not a stat you expect to see when your top defenseman is out, but it speaks to the depth and resilience this team has shown.
Looking ahead, all eyes turn to the upcoming clash with the Oilers - a game that carries more weight than your average regular-season matchup. For Anthony Stolarz, it’s a chance at redemption.
The veteran goalie has struggled since returning from a nerve issue, giving up nine goals on 51 shots across two appearances. He hasn’t picked up a win since November 5th, and with the Olympic break looming, this could be a pivotal opportunity to get back on track.
There’s also some added intrigue with Troy Stecher, who’s set to face a former team for the third straight game. The defenseman, who jokingly calls himself a “suitcase” due to his frequent team changes, was claimed off waivers from Edmonton back in November. Since arriving in Toronto, he’s been a steady presence on the blue line - exactly the kind of low-risk, high-reward pickup that good teams make.
As the Leafs prepare for Game 2 of their Alberta back-to-back, the stakes are rising. Not just for the standings, but for the roster itself.
With the Olympic trade freeze on the horizon and the March 6 NHL trade deadline not far behind, Toronto’s front office is undoubtedly evaluating every shift, every line combo, and every performance. Games like this one in Edmonton aren’t just about two points - they’re about figuring out what this team needs to make a real run come spring.
So while the Leafs are trending in the right direction, the next 60 minutes on the ice will say a lot more than the last two games did. If Toronto can go into Edmonton and come out with a win, then - and only then - maybe we start asking: are the Leafs finally turning the corner?