The 1948-49 Maple Leafs had plenty in their drive for an unprecedented third consecutive title. They lost three key players: Captain Syl Apps and center Nick Metz retired, and defenseman Wally Stanowski was traded to the New York Rangers. All three had been on multiple Cup-winning teams.

With their 4–0 victory over the Buffalo Sabres, the Leafs secured the division title and set up a long-awaited playoff rematch against the Ottawa Senators. This is the Leafs' first full-season division crown in 25 years and their first since the NHL created the Atlantic in 2013.