Maple Leafs Clinch Playoff Spot with Panthers Win

The Toronto Maple Leafs secured a 3-2 victory over the Florida Panthers, clinching a playoff spot for the ninth consecutive season and maintaining their lead in the Atlantic Division. Key contributions came from Mitch Marner, who scored the go-ahead goal and assisted Matthew Knies on a breakaway for an insurance marker, while Anthony Stolarz made 29 saves. This win gives Toronto a four-point edge over the Panthers and a three-point lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes also clinched a playoff berth after defeating the Washington Capitals, marking their seventh consecutive postseason appearance. Both teams aim to overcome their playoff hurdles, with Toronto seeking its first Stanley Cup Final win since 1967 and Carolina striving to reach the finals for the first time in recent years.