TOR

We’re in a true win-win situation heading into Game Seven. If the Leafs pull it off, we get proof that the core can rise to the moment. That they can win when it matters most. It means the blueprint might actually work. The Cup dream stays alive, not just in theory but in practice. That’s a win. But if they lose? Then the writing’s on the wall. The era of patience and belief in this core ends. Shanahan? Likely gone. Marner? Almost certainly out. JT? Only stays if the deal is perfect. A reset becomes not just possible, but necessary. And that too, oddly enough, is a win. ...

It’s the same old story all over again You turn a lover into just another friend I wanna love you, I wanna make you mine Won’t you lay it on the line? I’m tired of playing foolish games I’m tired of all your lies making me insane I don’t ask for much, truth will do just fine Won’t you lay it on the line? Triumph It’s the same old story—another postseason, another no-show. The Toronto Maple Leafs had everything to play for in Game 5. Season on the brink. Legacy on the line. And once again, when the moment called for courage and conviction, the Leafs blinked. ...