Sketchy late-game moments aside, this was an excellent way for the Leafs to start their post-4-Nations stretch drive: a nice win over a top opponent who previously had their number with five straight losses.
The Leafs are nearly fully healthy and have the softest schedule in the league the rest of the way (or tied for it). The injured Matthew Tkachuk’s season appears to be in question in Florida, who lead the division by just one point over the Leafs, who currently have two games in hand. Home ice through the first two rounds and a favorable round-one matchup are right there for the taking if the Leafs can reach out and grab it.