Well, 2016 has come to a close, and the Leafs find themselves in a pretty good – and unexpected – spot. With a win over Detroit on Sunday in the Centennial Classic, the Leafs are 17-12-7, good enough for 10th in the East and eighth by points percentage.



Basically, they’re on pace for 93 points – and a playoff spot.



That pace is a huge step up from last season. By my estimates, the Leafs currently have an over 60 per cent chance of making the playoffs this season, far higher than anyone would have predicted in September.



Toronto wouldn’t be anywhere close to where they are right now without this summer’s two biggest acquisitions: Auston Matthews and Frederik Andersen. Matthews, their first overall pick, has been even better than advertised. Andersen was acquired at the draft in what seemed like a risky move, but has already paid big dividends.



While some may argue the Leafs first half MVP should be Mitch Marner,...