4 tips from Leafs-Flyers: Robertson makes the most of opportunities, Matthews shows vintage speed

No preamble is needed. Let’s get straight to takeaways!

Here are four takeaways from the Leafs’ win over the Flyers

Nick Robertson makes the most of the golden opportunity on the first line

Nick Robertson was placed on the Maple Leafs’ first line with Matthew Knies and Auston Matthews as William Nylander was held out of Saturday’s game due to injury. Robertson made the most of his opportunity and, together with Matthews, was the Maple Leafs’ best attacker. During a time when Robertson was fighting for his spot in the lineup, he registered a goal and a secondary assist, while drawing praise from head coach Craig Berube.

Late in the second period, Knies and Robertson broke loose for a 2-on-2 after John Tavares fished the puck out of the defensive zone. Knies cut through the offensive zone, dropped the puck back to Robertson, who showed off his great shot and banked the puck in for his second goal of the year. It’s exactly what Robertson needs to do, especially for a Leafs team always looking for better secondary scoring.

Robertson generated a secondary assist on Auston Matthews’ goal in the first period and kept the offensive zone plays alive. Knies-Matthews-Robertson finished with a 71 percent expected goals share at 5-on-5, and while Berube looks for his ideal combination on the top line, Robertson’s sheer offensive skill may have earned him a new look for Monday’s game against the Boston Bruins.

Easton Cowan scores first NHL goal

Tavares and the rest of the Maple Leafs raved about Cowan, whose tenacity and hockey intelligence through 12 games came naturally. Cowan deserved to score earlier in the season, especially when paired with Matthew Knies and Auston Matthews, and it is well-deserved reward for his strong start.

Cowan then earned a post-game interview on Hockey Night in Canada. It’s the sign that we’re witnessing the beginning of what could be a truly great Maple Leafs career.

Chris Tanev was stretchered off the ice during his return to the lineup

Tanev gave a thumbs up to the crowd before leaving the match. It was a frightening sight for Tanev, and until we know more, all we can do is offer a speedy recovery for the veteran defender.

Auston Matthews scores with the speed everyone is looking for

Everyone is waiting for Auston Matthews to return to the form he showed during the 2023-2024 season, and at least for one period we got a glimpse of it. Matthews sent home a wrister to tie the game in the first period with the same speed and location we’ve grown accustomed to seeing throughout his career.

PRESENTED BY VIVID CHAIRS