The Toronto Maple Leafs have once again faced a disappointing early exit from the Stanley Cup playoffs, this time at the hands of the Florida Panthers in a Game 7 defeat. This loss marks the end of an era for the Maple Leafs, as it seems likely that the Core Four – consisting of key players like Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner – will no longer be together. Let’s take a look back at some of the worst playoff moments for the Maple Leafs’ Core Four.
#5: Florida Game 5, 2025
After taking a 2-0 series lead against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Maple Leafs had high hopes of advancing. However, a devastating 6-1 loss in Game 5 at home dashed their dreams and ultimately sealed their fate in the series.
#4: Boston, Game 7, 2019
In the 2019 playoffs, the Maple Leafs held a 3-2 series lead over the Boston Bruins in the first round. Despite a strong start, Toronto faltered in Game 6 and then suffered a crushing 5-1 defeat in Game 7, once again highlighting the Core Four’s inability to perform under pressure.
#3: Columbus, Game 5, 2020
Facing the Columbus Blue Jackets in a best-of-five qualifying round in the bubble, the Maple Leafs had hopes of a deep playoff run. However, a lackluster performance in Game 5 led to a 3-0 shutout loss and an early exit from the playoffs, underscoring the team’s inability to deliver in critical moments.
#2: Montreal, Game 7, 2021
In the 2021 playoffs, the Maple Leafs held a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Montreal Canadiens in the first round. Despite their advantage, Toronto faltered in Games 5 and 6, ultimately losing Game 7 and squandering their best chance at a deep playoff run.
#1: Florida, Game 7, 2025
The most devastating playoff moment for the Core Four came in Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. Despite a strong showing in Game 6 to force a deciding game, the Maple Leafs were dominated in a 6-1 loss on home ice, signaling the end of an era for the team.
In conclusion, the Maple Leafs’ Core Four have faced numerous disappointments and failures in the playoffs, leading to questions about their ability to perform in crucial moments. As the team looks to regroup and rebuild, it remains to be seen what the future holds for this talented but underachieving group of players.
