When it comes to popularity, brand recognition and history, the Toronto Maple Leafs are the New York Yankees of the NHL. And like the Yankees, the Leafs are desperate for a championship. Every spring, there is palpable anxiety around Ontario. And every summer, there is palpable disappointment.
And much like the Yankees, the Leafs regularly have some of the best players in the game. The club has produced Hall of Famers and heroes like Doug Gilmour and attracted hometown heroes like John Tavares.
Excellence is not just expected by fans and supporters of iconic teams, but demanded.