Leafs Face Elimination After Panthers' Game 5 Rout

The Toronto Maple Leafs, after losing a 2-0 lead in their series against the Florida Panthers, now face elimination following three straight defeats, including a 6-1 loss at home in Game 5. Frustrated fans expressed their displeasure with boos, early departures, and jerseys thrown on the ice as key players Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner again failed to register points. Coach Craig Berube called for the team to stay united and improve energy and net-front presence, while confirming that injured goalie Anthony Stolarz will miss Game 6. Despite the bleak outlook, some optimism remains, with public figures like Charles Barkley predicting a Leafs comeback led by Matthews. The Panthers are now favored to close out the series at home and avoid a Game 7. The Leafs have not advanced past the second round since 2002, and elimination would likely intensify scrutiny on their core players and management.