If you want to see the original predictions, here's the link to that. Below you'll find an update on how I'm feeling about each one.
1. Auston Matthews scores 70 goals
Status: Doubtful
I didn't think he was going to score 70 when the season started, but he got 60 last year so trying to make a bold prediction meant I had to go higher than what he did a year ago. He's on pace for about 40, but this guy scored 50 in 50 last year, so with 51 games to go, another 60-goal season isn't out of the question. I still think he'll get 50, but 70 is pretty much out of reach. Then again, it's Matthews, the greatest goal scorer in the game today, so nothing is out of the question.
2. Leafs win the Presidents' Trophy
Status: Could be worse
The Leafs are 4th in the NHL for points right now, but they're behind Boston, Vegas, and New Jersey. Those are going to be tough teams to take down, but the Leafs are playing a more mature game than ever before. They should be in the hunt for the Presidents' Trophy, although I'll be a bit surprised if they win it.
3. John Tavares will return to form (30 goals, 82 points)
Status: Lock it in
Tavares has 14 goals and 16 assists for 30 points in 31 games. He's doing exactly what I thought he would do. Even if he falls short of the point projection, the heart of my prediction is sound. Tavares is giving the Leafs the sort of season they need from him to justify that huge salary.
4. Nick Robertson scores 20 goals
Status: DOA
Well, this looked good for a minute when Robertson put up two goals against Dallas early in the season, but he's been in and out of the lineup since and is now injured for about two months. Injuries have destroyed this kid's career thus far. Hard to imagine him as a regular in the lineup at this point, let alone a top-six winger who can get you 20 goals.
5. Leafs make the Stanley Cup Finals
Status: Pending
We'll see about this one. Leafs are playing really well and getting the goaltending they need. They are getting contributions from all over their organization. It's been cool to watch. They have the depth to really make a run if they can slay the demons that haunt them in the first round.
