Maple Leafs set to face Bruins in opening round of playoffs

The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up to face the Boston Bruins in the opening round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, a matchup that has become a familiar one in recent years. Despite expectations of facing the Florida Panthers, the Leafs will now have to prepare for a showdown with their long-time rivals.

After a 5-2 loss to the Panthers, the Leafs settled for a matchup against the Bruins as Florida claimed the No. 1 seed in the Atlantic Division. Leafs captain John Tavares expressed excitement about the Original Six matchup, acknowledging the history and challenge that comes with facing the Bruins in the playoffs.

On the other hand, Florida will take on the Tampa Bay Lightning in their playoff opener. The Leafs, who could have secured a rematch with the Panthers with a victory, now have to face the Bruins, who have been a tough opponent for them in the past.

Despite the unexpected matchup, Leafs winger Mitch Marner expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete against the Bruins. With one more regular-season game left, the Leafs are focused on cleaning up their game and shifting their focus to the upcoming playoff series.

The Leafs have a chance to redeem themselves after losing to the Bruins in the first round in both 2018 and 2019. With a revamped roster and a renewed sense of determination, the Leafs are ready to face their old foes in what promises to be a competitive and intense series.