The Leafs have lost three of the last four to Columbus (two in overtime) and conceded six goals in each loss, including their worst loss of the 2024-25 season back on October 22. The Leafs were 5-0 down just past the midway point of the second period in that game, en route to a 6-2 defeat.
The throughline in their recent defeats to the Blue Jackets is that the Leafs have fed Columbus’ transition/rush game with poor decision-making and puck mismanagement. While they are not strong defensively or in net, Columbus has plenty of speed, skill, and youthful energy in their lineup.