Maple Leafs clinch playoff spot, will return to post-season for eighth year in a row
TORONTO — The Toronto Maple Leafs clinched a playoff berth Friday night without stepping on the ice.
Toronto started the day with four clinch scenarios depending on the results of games involving the Philadelphia Flyers, Detroit Red Wings and Washington Capitals.
All three of those teams lost Friday as the Maple Leafs secured a post-season berth for the eighth year in a row.
Toronto (43-23-9) is third in the NHL’s Atlantic Division standings with 95 points. The Maple Leafs, who have seven games left to play in the regular season, will visit the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday night.