Leafs' Late Surge Threatens Draft Lottery Chances

0:00It's March 26, I'm Cory with the story. This is NHL News today, driven by AI and Bill for fans. The Toronto Maple Leafs are winning games at the absolute worst time this season. After struggling for months, they've picked up two straight victories, which boost their standings, but tanks their draft lottery odds. Their 2026 first round pick is Top 5 protected, and could go to the Boston Bruins if it falls outside that range. This late surge hurts because the team needs a low finish to keep the pick and chase a high draft slot. Every point they earn now pushes them further from the bottom five spots, making it tougher to land a franchise talent. Management hoped for a slide, but the players are suddenly clicking. Fans and analysts are scratching their heads over the timing. The squad look checked out for most of the year under Coach Craig Barubi, yet now they're showing real energy and fight. He creates a tricky spot where missing the playoffs might not spark big changes upstairs. With just nine gains remaining, the math is brutal.

1:01A loss to the St. Louis Blues tonight would help reset their position, though the Blues have been hot lately at seven wins, one loss, and two ties in. Their last 10. Gold tending has stabilized, fueling this unwanted momentum. If they keep this up, the Leafs risk settling into mediocrity without the draft help or shake up they need, leaving everyone wondering what's next for. The rebuild.