Toronto Maple Leafs' overtime loss: Are playoff struggles setting them up for heartbreak again?

The Toronto Maple Leafs were on the verge of controlling their playoff destiny. A two-goal lead in Game 3 against the Florida Panthers should have been enough to seize the momentum and put themselves in a dominant position in the series. But once again, the Leafs faltered. A crushing 5–4 overtime defeat left fans wondering, are the Maple Leafs doomed to repeat the same playoff struggles year after year? For a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, this loss raises serious questions about their ability to handle pressure and close out games when it matters most.The Leafs’ 5–4 loss wasn’t just a missed opportunity; it was a textbook example of their recurring playoff issues.They allowed the Florida Panthers to storm back from a two-goal deficit, ultimately losing in overtime. While Toronto did well offensively, their defensive lapses were glaring. Joseph Woll, who had been solid in net, allowed a crucial goal to Jonah Gadjovich, highlighting the Leafs’ inability to protect leads.This is the type of game the Maple Leafs must win to prove they can rise above past playoff failures. But with every mistake, it became evident that they were still prone to the same mental lapses that have haunted them in previous years. Fans hoped this year would be different, but Game 3 has already cast doubt on their ability to overcome adversity.Auston Matthews is the cornerstone of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and with all eyes on him in crucial moments, he’s yet to truly take over a game this postseason. While he’s been contributing defensively and assisting, Matthews needs to be the offensive force the team depends on. Toronto needs him to lead with his scoring ability, but thus far, that dominant playoff version of Matthews hasn’t emerged. Without him firing on all cylinders, the Leafs are left scrambling for answers.For the Leafs to find success in this series and in future playoff runs Matthews must elevate his game and make his presence felt when it matters most. Until then, the weight of playoff failures will continue to drag the team down.Game 4 presents a pivotal moment for the Leafs. Their playoff journey is far from over, but another loss could be the breaking point. The Florida Panthers, with their grit and determination, have shown they can handle adversity, and Toronto must match that energy if they are to have any hope of advancing. The Leafs need to dig deep, tighten up defensively, and finally close out a game without unraveling under pressure.Also Read: Calvin Pickard vs. Stuart Skinner: The goalie dilemma that could define the Oilers’ playoff fateWith the series on the line, the Maple Leafs must prove they can break free from their playoff struggles. Game 4 is their chance to do just that.