Leafs' Season Over

Despite Saturday night's 6-5 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs' season is over. This afternoon, the New York Islanders beat the New Jersey Devils in a shootout. Only a week ago the Isles were considered out of the playoff race, but today's win gave them a season total of 91 points. It is just one more point than the Leafs, but enough to take the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Islanders' win is a huge disappointment for Leaf fans who last night, took to the streets to celebrate the win over Montreal. Unfortunately, festivities didn't last long and the Maple Leafs franchise must face the harsh reality that is has been 40 whole years since they last won a Stanley Cup.

On a personal note, I'm disappointed there won't be playoff excitement in the air. Although I haven't intently followed the Leafs this season, I was looking forward to the city's enthusiasm for playoff hockey: the "Go Leafs Go!" signs in store windows and buses; packed bars and the inevitable loss that would provoke grown men to cry in public. I guess there's always next year.