In the rich history of the Toronto Maple Leafs, there have been many talented players who have donned the blue and white jersey. But as we look ahead to the upcoming season, there is a possibility that a trio of players could make franchise history. It’s a feat that has never been achieved before in the history of the Maple Leafs – having multiple players finish the season with 100+ points.
Throughout the years, only three players have reached the century mark in Toronto’s history – Darryl Sittler, Doug Gilmour, and Auston Matthews. These three legends have achieved this feat twice in their careers. However, with the current roster of the Leafs loaded with talent, there is a strong possibility that this milestone could be reached once again.
The Maple Leafs will also be under the guidance of a new coach who is looking to instill a new style of play. As one player on the team expressed, “We have to play north, that’s the type of hockey we want to play.”
One key factor that could help the Leafs trio reach this historic milestone is their powerplay. Last season, Toronto finished seventh in the league in powerplay percentage, but the team believes there is still room for improvement. With the revamped coaching staff and the talent that the Leafs possess, hitting the 100-point mark may not be far-fetched.
If the trio were able to achieve this feat, they would join an elite group of teams in NHL history. Most recently, the Edmonton Oilers had three players hit the 100-point mark in the 2022-23 season, with Connor McDavid leading the way with an astonishing 153 points. McDavid’s individual accolades that season were a testament to the immense talent required to accomplish such a feat.
In NHL history, there have only been five instances of a quartet of players reaching the century mark. The iconic Edmonton Oilers of the 80’s achieved this three times, with Wayne Gretzky leading the charge. The Boston Bruins in ’71 and the Pittsburgh Penguins in ’93 are the only other teams to have accomplished this rare milestone.
One can’t help but wonder if history will repeat itself in the 2024-25 season, with the Maple Leafs’ trio of Matthews, Marner, and Nylander making franchise history. Only time will tell if these three stars can reach such a lofty goal, but one thing is for certain – the Maple Leafs have the talent and potential to make it happen.
