As the 2024-2025 NHL season comes to a close, the Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a crucial stretch of games that will determine their position in the upcoming 2026 NHL draft. Following their recent loss to the Florida Panthers, the Leafs find themselves outside of a playoff spot, and their chances of securing a better draft pick are dwindling. With the NHL draft lottery system favoring teams that miss the playoffs, the Leafs must regroup and put together a winning streak to avoid falling further down the draft board. Can they turn their season around and secure a top-five pick, or will they be stuck with a lower selection and a longer wait for the next crop of talented young players?

How the Maple Leafs Can Secure a Better 2026 NHL Draft Position After Panthers Loss  The Hockey News