Toronto Maple Leafs Thrown Off by Playoff Schedule

The Toronto Maple Leafs had themselves a fine season, winning the North Division and heading into the playoffs with some serious momentum. One problem, their going to have to wait it out for some playoff action.

Mark your calendars 🗓

Our series schedule is set for the opening round against the Canadiens.#LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/Z4mTES2sCB
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 13, 2021

The NHL released the playoff schedule on Thursday and the Leafs face off against the Montreal Canadiens in round one. Unfortunately for Leafs Nation and for the team, they have to wait until May 20th for game one and have to endure playing on back to back nights. Meanwhile some of the other playoff matchups will be into game 3 and 4 by then.

Justin Holl on the long layoff for #Leafs after tonight before playoffs start:

"It is odd. We're anxious to get going and we're gonna get started a little bit later, but that's okay. We'll get a couple days of practice and some recovery time for guys that are nursing injuries."
— Kristen Shilton (@kristen_shilton) May 14, 2021

Sheldon Keefe on trying to keep #Leafs sharp:

"That's the biggest mental hurdle. Guys want to play well, they want to win the game. But our guys know what's around the corner here and nobody wants to be going into it too banged up so you're a little shy on everything."
— Kristen Shilton (@kristen_shilton) May 13, 2021

As defenseman Justin Holl points out, the only upside is the fact guys can nurse some injuries and get back to 100% health. The likes of Zach Hyman, Nick Foligno, Riley Nash and Frederik Andersen have all been banged up lately and will use the extra couple of days to recover.

The Leafs and Habs are meeting in the playoffs for the first time in over 40 years. Buckle up and let the chirping begin!