The Toronto Maple Leafs are on a roll, boasting a three-game winning streak as they prepare to face the New York Rangers. The team's ambition is clear: clinch the top spot in the Atlantic Division, a sentiment echoed by captain John Tavares, who believes that achieving this milestone signifies a successful season that sets the stage for a strong playoff run. Coach Craig Berube emphasizes the importance of focusing on their own game rather than the standings, urging the squad to improve daily.

As they vie for the division lead, the Leafs are in a tight race with the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning. The recent performances of players like Mitch Marner, Morgan Rielly, and Auston Matthews have been pivotal. Marner, who recently notched his third multi-goal game of the season, alongside Rielly's standout four-point night against the Bruins, showcases the team's depth and offensive prowess. Matthews, despite fatigue, continues to deliver, tying for second on the franchise’s all-time goals list with his 389th goal.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are actively seeking a third-line center and potentially a defenseman to enhance their playoff roster. General Manager Brad Treliving's primary concern is finding a suitable partner for Morgan Rielly, who has recently shown improved performance alongside Oliver Ekman-Larsson. However, Ekman-Larsson is playing on his offside, which complicates the situation. The team had hoped for Jani Hakanpaa's return, but his ongoing knee issues have limited his impact this season.

Max Domi has primarily occupied the third-line center position but has struggled with only three goals this season. Pontus Holmberg has been an alternative option, but he too has not established himself as a reliable fit. With the trade deadline approaching, Treliving is likely to pursue external options to solidify the lineup as the team sits second in the Atlantic Division and aims for a strong playoff run.

Brock Boeser netted a power-play goal to edge the Vancouver Canucks past the Toronto Maple Leafs with a final score of 2-1. Filip Hronek contributed with a goal and an assist, showcasing his impact on the ice as the Canucks secured their third consecutive victory.

Despite the loss, Morgan Rielly scored for Toronto, which saw its four-game winning streak come to an end. Toronto's Joseph Woll made 23 saves, while Vancouver's Thatcher Demko played briefly before Kevin Lankinen stepped in, saving 21 shots. The match also marked the last outing for both teams before heading into the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.

Brock Boeser scored a pivotal power-play goal midway through the third period to lead the Vancouver Canucks to a 2-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs. Filip Hronek contributed with a goal and an assist, helping the Canucks extend their winning streak to three games and improve their record to 26-18-11. Morgan Rielly found the net for the Maple Leafs, who suffered a setback after winning their previous three games on the Pacific Division road trip.

Thatcher Demko started in goal but played only ten minutes, making six saves before Kevin Lankinen took over, stopping 21 shots. Toronto's Joseph Woll recorded 23 saves. This game was crucial for both teams as they prepared for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, showcasing strong performances from key players.

In a thrilling matchup against the Calgary Flames, the Toronto Maple Leafs showcased a powerful offensive display, culminating in a 6-3 victory. William Nylander led the charge with a hat trick, marking his first since 2017, and now boasts a team-high 33 goals, setting him on track to surpass his previous career-best of 40 goals. Bobby McMann, fresh off his career-high 16th goal, praised Nylander's effortless scoring ability, while Matthew Knies contributed with a goal following an Auston Matthews breakaway.

Despite missing key players like Matthews and Mitch Marner, who was sidelined due to a lower-body injury, the Leafs demonstrated strong depth, with goals coming from their top scorers. Morgan Rielly was instrumental in the offensive play, helping the Leafs dominate the possession battle. The game featured a mix of power-play goals and fast break opportunities, a strategy the team appears to be reclaiming under coach Craig Berube.