Playing while shorthanded has been a season-long problem for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Until recently, their power play has been one of their biggest strengths.
Together, the declining performance of both is one of the greatest concerns for the Leafs as their season reaches the final stages and they prepare for the playoffs.
A power-play drought can be brushed aside as something that is bound to happen throughout a long season. Plus, the Leafs have historically been strong in this area for the past five or so years.
While these facts are true, there is a rightful reason to be concerned about the Leafs subpar special-teams play.
First and foremost, is the Leafs inept special teams play during their most recent playoff disappointments.
During their last three playoff appearances, the Leafs power play has converted on 15 out of 92 opportunities for a 16.3% success rate. That’s roughly ten percent lower than their regular-season efficiency.
Last year’s playoffs saw the Leafs kill penalties at a 73.3% success rate. In 2021-2022, they were at 78.8%. That’s two successive postseasons at well under an average rate of 80.0%.
In fairness, during the 2020-2021 playoffs, the Leafs killed 84.2% of their penalties successfully. That roster included Jake Muzzin, Zach Bogosian, Justin Holl, Alex Kerfoot, and Ilya Mikheyev who were significant parts of the shorthanded units.
Those players, especially the most recently departed Holl and Kerfoot, have not been adequately replaced as evidenced by the Leafs abysmal penalty-killing this season.
Power Play Solutions Are Easier to Solve Than Penalty Killing
The Leafs abundance of high-end skill makes the power play a lesser concern. Yet, despite the presence of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, John Tavares, and Morgan Rielly, the unit has had postseason struggles.
