The last 48 hours have been a steady mix of excitement and determination on one end with anxiousness and concern on the other. You’d think Leafs fans would be used to the idea of facing Boston in the first round considering that was how the seeding was set up for the majority of the regular season. Additionally, the Leafs took the season series over the Bruins winning three of their four matches. But it’s still Boston.

As much as the players and coaching staff want to deflate the situation, we all know what this series means. It’s Rocky vs. Apollo part two (kind of), and even though Auston Matthews and company were not there for the first duel, a victory over them has significance.

Mike Babcock was very vocal at team practice, and you can tell he’s trying to keep the energy high. Additionally, if you had a dollar for the number of times he mentioned ‘winning’ in his media scrum, you’d be rolling in Tim Hortons double-doubles.

It’s all about showing up for the important moments and executing on all fronts. If you cheat your effort, you cheat your teammates. Cheating doesn’t equate to winning and - I think you get the point.

In Case You Missed It

Key dates for the NHL playoffs and beyond - Pension Plan Puppets
What happens when and to whom.

2018 NHL Playoffs: Which team should Canada cheer for? - Pension Plan Puppets
When Mike Babcock first took the job as Maple Leafs head coach, he said one thing that's stuck in our minds. "I believe this is Canada's team, and we need to put Canada's team back on the map." However, elseldo has done the research, and we know who has that honour now.

Odds are that the Leafs will either win or lose against the Bruins - Pension Plan Puppets
Are the odds for our favourite players in blue and white in their favour? Maybe, maybe not, or why not check out what the actual numbers are here.

Carl Grundström is at loose ends, anyone have a Marlies job for him? - Pension Plan Puppets
Apparently, Carl Grundström may be looking for a place to play for the time being. Ricoh Coliseum is a mighty fine spot.elseldo

PPP judges our pre-season predictions and makes some new NHL Awards guesses - Pension Plan Puppets
We never learn. We’re making new predictions to be wrong about, too.

Ian Scott to join the Toronto Marlies on a try-out - Pension Plan Puppets
Remember when the Leafs organization didn't have any goaltenders? It'll be interesting to see if he gets a look in one of the Marlies final three games.

Around the Hockey World

Why you should cheer for the Winnipeg Jets - Arctic Ice Hockey
Yes, do tell us. In all honesty, they're a team to track in the West and potential stand behind if you're looking for a bandwagon (besides ours of course).

Carolina Hurricanes Exit Interviews: Cam Ward, Tom Dundon, Justin Williams Disappointed, Frustrated, Angry - Canes Country
To put it simply, the Carolina Hurricanes are very upset about how their season played out. In other news, Fulemin's 'Schadenfreude' meter is almost at its peak.

The Astronaut | by Wayne Simmonds
As someone who has heard the “stick to basketball,” I thought this was a phenomenal read that sends an important message. Also, Mr. Simmonds, if you wouldn't mind signing with the Leafs in 2019, I would really appreciate it.

If you haven’t gotten the chance to see the Humboldt Broncos vigil

Have a good Tuesday Leafs fans; we’re two days away from Game One.

From The Branches