The 1948-49 Maple Leafs had plenty in their drive for an unprecedented third consecutive title. They lost three key players: Captain Syl Apps and center Nick Metz retired, and defenseman Wally Stanowski was traded to the New York Rangers. All three had been on multiple Cup-winning teams.

With their 4–0 victory over the Buffalo Sabres, the Leafs secured the division title and set up a long-awaited playoff rematch against the Ottawa Senators. This is the Leafs' first full-season division crown in 25 years and their first since the NHL created the Atlantic in 2013.

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are upon us, and the Battle of Ontario is back, which means the stakes are about to rise in a major way for the Toronto Maple Leafs.