On Sunday, Leafs captain Auston Matthews spoke to the media ahead of Game 1 and insisted that this group is different and ready to go against the Panthers. “We’re a prepared group, we’re ready to go,” Matthews said. “We know the challenge that lies ahead, and it's just taking it one step at a time.”

With a spirited and complete 4-3 win in Game 2, Toronto now owns a commanding series lead over the defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have won just two playoff rounds in 21 years; needless to say, Auston Matthews and co. have never made it past the second round. On Wednesday night, the Leafs had the opportunity to go up 2-0 against the Florida Panthers,