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Toronto Maple Leafs Face Offseason Questions After Game 7 Loss to Panthers

A 6-1 defeat in the second round extends Toronto's Game 7 struggles and raises uncertainty about the future of key players and team leadership.

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Toronto Maple Leafs players and coaching staff react during third period of their 6-1 loss to the Florida Panthers in NHL Stanley Cup playoff hockey action in Toronto, Sunday, May 18, 2025.
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Overview

  • The Maple Leafs were eliminated from the playoffs after a 6-1 loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 7 at Scotiabank Arena on May 18, marking their seventh consecutive Game 7 defeat.
  • Head coach Craig Berube and captain Auston Matthews criticized the team's lack of desperation and execution, with Matthews calling out 'too many passengers' in the decisive game.
  • Pending free agents Mitch Marner and John Tavares face uncertain futures with the team, as both have yet to commit to returning ahead of July 1 free agency.
  • Fan frustration boiled over during the loss, with boos and jersey tosses reflecting deep disappointment over the Leafs' inability to advance beyond the second round since 2002.
  • The organization faces a pivotal offseason, with questions surrounding the 'Core Four,' management changes, and how to address ongoing playoff failures despite strong regular seasons.