Maple Leafs' latest flop makes Boston Bruins' trade deadline fleecing much sweeter

Feb 25, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) handles the puck against Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images | Morgan Tencza-Imagn ImagesAs the calendar flips to March, the Boston Bruins are in a heated race for the final Eastern Conference playoff spot. They hold down the second wild-card spot, despite losing 3-1 to the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday afternoon.

The team closest on their tail for the final spot is the Washington Capitals. The two teams have what should be considered monster matchups looming this month. Boston also has three games in hand on the Caps,…