Leafs Ranked #1 in Key Category Since Deadline, a Promising Sign for the Playoffs

While the Maple Leafs haven't necessarily been the most consistent team this season, they have certainly done their best to put themselves in a good position come playoff time. Currently sitting tied for first with the Panthers in the division, these next few games are going to be a huge test for everyone involved.

But if there's any consolation to their inconsistency, it's the fact that their power play is suddenly the most potent part of their offense.

Since the trade deadline, their five-man unit has averaged 8.5 G/20, ranking first above top teams like Vegas, and their provincial rival Ottawa.

The five-forward contingent of Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and Matthew Knies have been fantastic as of late, and their aggressive play has led to a lot of success. They are shooting more, cycling less, and being relentless at causing chaos.

Nine power play goals since the deadline is a pretty solid number and a huge contrast from the beginning of the season where they were among the league's worst with the man advantage.

The team is now sitting fifth in the NHL on the power play only behind Vegas, Detroit, Winnipeg, and New Jersey at 26%; even a few weeks ago the team was hanging toward the middle of the pack. It's a huge turnaround that was desperately needed, and it can only mean good things come postseason time.

Toronto will need to take advantage of every opportunity they have with the man advantage, and if they can use the type of plays that led to a Mitch Marner goal against Nashville, they'll be wildly successful.

While we can't guarantee the Maple Leafs will continue producing at this rate, the eye test has shown that this power play means business, and that means bad news for any team come playoff time.

At least they hope.