The problem with this team that remains unchanged is they have no "dictate"
To their game. When they DO happen to get off to good starts, it's usually because the other team is flat. They have never gone out and asserted their will against a team. If the opposing team has a weak start or suffers brain lapses, then the leafs will usually capitalize on that. How many games have they had this season where they have like 10-13 shots through 2 periods? I followed Babcock from the Wings to the Leafs and ry fell in love with the team when the core came together. But ultimately, I've seen teams in NARCh Roller Hockey Tournaments that play harder than this team regularly. Then when you get to the playoffs, that's when teams are stepping up their intensity, their focus, their compete. In the playoffs teams start on time, focused and ready to go, to implement their will and game. That's why this team is so weak, none of the foundational pillars here are the types of guys that are going to do something about it. And I get it, how could you trade one of these guys, they are all so talented?! But really, ok, the "talent" is neat and cool, but what is it really achieving?
The Leafs core look like a bunch of guys who are just happy to be in the NHL, and that's not bad in a vaccum, but at some point you need to mix it up with some players that will actually do something about it and can lead the team.