The real test, however, will come as the Toronto Maple Leafs make the leap to Stanley Cup contenders. Instead of fizzling out like other young teams who enjoyed a successful surprise season.
For every Chicago Blackhawks and Los Angeles Kings, there’s a Colorado Avalanche and New York Islanders. In the case of Chicago and Los Angeles, they were young teams that broke through. Resulting in five cups in a span of six years (three for Chicago and two for Los Angeles).
On the other hand, there are the Colorado’s of the world. A team that drafted can’t miss prospect; had early success, but haven’t amounted to much since then.