2013 Stanley Cup Playoff Team - Toronto Maple Leafs

For the first time since 2003-2004 - that's two NHL lockouts for those of you scoring at home - the 2013 Toronto Maple Leafs are finally back in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Behind the stellar play of goalie James Reimer and offensive success of players like Phil Kessel, one of the two most heralded franchises in NHL history is finally back in the tournament for Lord Stanley's Cup. The beginning of the lockout-shortened season was a bit ominous, as long-time GM Brian Burke was fired; the four years he invested in the franchise finally paid dividends this year, though, as big acquisitions like Kessel and defenseman Dion Phaneuf led one of the NHL's flagship organizations into the postseason.

Now that they've qualified for the playoffs - almost guaranteed the No. 5 seed - the potential Toronto Maple Leafs 2013 Stanley Cup Playoff run is being dissected by the analysts and fans long-hungry to see this team tested in the NHL's intense postseason. Toronto is still waiting to see if their first round NHL playoff opponent will be the fierce historic rival Montreal Canadiens or recent nemesis and recent Stanley Cup champion Boston Bruins. Fans are hoping to meet the Habs in the first round, a fitting reintroduction into the playoffs with an intense rivalry to instantly increase the energy level. Toronto has also enjoyed far more success as of late against Montreal, not so much against the Bruins.

Toronto Maple Leafs Stanley Cup Playoff Opponent

While the Maple Leafs are unlikely to ever have home ice advantage in the 2013 NHL Playoffs, their fans are guaranteed at least two postseason games in the Air Canada Centre for the first time in nine seasons.

Odds via

NHL Playoff Preview - Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs - Because It's the Cup

Maple Leafs Hope to Avenge 1993

Toronto was so close to making the Stanley Cup Finals in 1993. Since then, they managed to make two more Conference Finals in the 90's but haven't returned to the playoffs in the last nine years. A controversial Game 7 loss still stings Maple Leafs' fans everywhere, and they'll rally around those memories as they cheer their team toward a cup.

Related Teams and Bands

• Montreal Canadiens
• Pittsburgh Penguins
• Washington Capitals
• Ottawa Senators
• Boston Bruins