What's your definition of 'success'? The Leafs went from last in the standings last year to getting to the playoffs this year, and giving the best NHL team (during the regular season) a heck of a scare all in one year. That's not too shabby.

If 'success' is defined by getting to the Stanley Cup Final, then the Senators are no more successful than the Leafs. So, not really sure what your point is here.

Are the Chicago Blackhawks also not successful because they fell out of the playoffs this season long ago? Let's regroup in a few years and we'll see who is more successful over the long term.