The first time it was just nice to have a participation ribbon for once. The second time they got eliminated in the first round was a failure. Not only because of how they lost, but because you'd expect a young team to progress and grow every year.

dont really think last year was a collosall failure when it was the second playoff run with the current core (minus JT), there's been much more growth this year. If the leafs lose this year its a huge failure because they've flat out been the better team for the most part.

regardless if they win or lose, they've made massive strides this year to their defensive game. Even though it's been shaky at times, they had one of the highest ever winning percentages when leading after 2 periods at 38-0-1, and in the playoffs they've managed to shut down the best line in hockey in all but 2 games. and really, they've shut them down every game at 5 on 5, the PK has just taken a step back for some reason. That's on the coaching staff, namely DJ Smith.

It's been a hell of a series but it's time for the big boys to show up. Freddy's been there all series. Matthews started slow but has been dominate after game 2. Marner and Tavares have been quiet almost all series. Marner had his 1 big game in game 1 and the big blocks at the end of game 3, and that's it. JT had his good game in game 1 but has been barely noticeable out there offensively since. Game 6 he showed a little more offence, but it's time he earns his $11M cap hit and shows up for game 7. I know he's been tasked with shutting down the Bergeron line with Marner and Hyman, but for that kinda money he needs to score too. it's time now.

I want them to win too, and if they lose I'm gonna be highly disappointed. But I wouldn't look at it as a total failure. They've made strides. Sometimes to win, you gotta lose first. In 2010 Boston blew a 3-0 series lead to Philly only to win the cup in 2011. Maybe the Leafs need to lose after leading a series to learn how to close it out.

Either way, see you Tuesday night in game 7.