Leafs vs Rangers Game Could Change Entire Playoff Picture

The Rangers have an impressive 6-1-3 record in their last 10 games, while the Leafs are 6-2-2 and have won three consecutive matches coming into tonight's game. Although both teams might rest key players, the Leafs face significant playoff implications.

Important Playoff Implications for Tonight's Game

The game's importance doesn't lie in a potential playoff clash with the Rangers, securing a playoff spot, or mental motivation. Instead, a victory tonight could secure the Leafs 2nd place in the NHL, granting home ice advantage against all but the Boston Bruins.


For the Leafs to achieve 2nd place in the NHL, several events must occur.

Besides winning tonight, Carolina (111 points) must lose to Florida in regulation, and New Jersey must lose in regulation or OT.

If these conditions are met, the Leafs would tally 49 regulation and overtime wins, surpassing Carolina's 47. Though the Devils also have 49 wins, the Leafs would surpass them, even if the Devils gain a point in an OT loss.

Home ice advantage is crucial for the Leafs, whose 27-8-6 home record ranks 2nd in the league with 60 points earned at home, just behind the Bruins.

Boston's impressive 34-4-3 home record leads the league, while Carolina and Tampa hold 3rd place with 59 home points.

Securing home ice advantage against every team but Boston could be a game-changer for the Leafs. If they can defeat the Lightning in round one and the Bruins are eliminated, the Leafs would essentially be the top-seeded team up to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Considering the fierce competition they'd face throughout the playoffs, home ice advantage is an asset that cannot be underestimated.

As seen on Maple Leafs Insider - Tonight's game against the New York Rangers has huge implications for the Leafs in the standings and in the playoffs; here's why