4 tips from Leafs-Penguins: Hildeby, balanced attack comes alive in the most complete victory of the year

Here are four takeaways from the Maple Leafs’ win over the Penguins:

Dennis Hildeby makes an excellent start during his first appearance since November 13

Hildeby kept the Maple Leafs in the game for the first six minutes, as the Maple Leafs did not register a shot until Oliver Ekman-Larsson opened the scoring. He regained his composure after allowing a shaky power-play goal to Penguins rookie Ben Kindel. Hildeby made an excellent save from Blake Lizotte as the power play faltered as the Maple Leafs led 2-1 at the first intermission.

There is a compound effect that comes with a great start from Hildeby. It certainly allows the Maple Leafs to give Woll some much-needed rest and they can be patient with Anthony Stolarz’s recovery from injury if Hildeby can prove himself to be a capable NHL backup. It was a strong performance from Hildeby, and it’s certainly worth noting that he defeated his counterpart Arturs Silovs, who was withdrawn after Dakota Joshua made it 4-1.

Hildeby received the team belt, awarded to the best or most impactful player in a Leafs victory.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson continues to be a great all-round presence throughout the nine-match series

Ekman-Larsson recorded a secondary assist on Bobby McMann’s goal, where McMann tipped home Morgan Rielly’s point shot. The veteran blueliner zoomed around the ice, making it easier to get out, and he crashed again from the point late in the second period for another high-danger opportunity. It was a great game from Ekman-Larsson, who finished with a team-best 60 percent expected goals share at 5-on-5 via Natural Stat Trick.

Unfortunately, Ekman-Larsson went to the locker room during the third period and did not return. It would be a crushing loss for the Leafs if Ekman-Larsson were to miss at all. He’s a two-way player, he’s been their best defensive presence, he plays with a mean streak and has been one of the most consistent players on a turbulent team thus far.

Dakota Joshua, Bobby McMann and Nicolas Roy break slumps, build chemistry on third line

Joshua scored his third goal of the season during the second period, an important insurance goal for the Maple Leafs. The 6-foot-4 forward used his frame to shield the Penguins defense and kept the puck down the ice for a 4-1 lead. Arturs Silovs was taken out of the match shortly afterwards, cementing Joshua’s impact on the game.

Joshua, Bobby McMann and Nicolas Roy formed Toronto’s third line, and all three players scored, with Roy scoring his goal on a power play in the second period. There was a similarity to be found as all three players used their size, speed and opportunism to get good looks throughout the match, which was evident in each of their goals. Toronto’s depth increased for the occasion

Toronto desperately needs more from their bottom six combinations. In doing so, it may have found its third line, at least ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Florida Panthers.

Auston Matthews scores his 10th goal with excellent location and speed

Auston Matthews has been thoroughly outplayed since returning to the lineup, and concern grew that the Maple Leafs captain might not be able to find his form. Matthews was significantly better on Saturday, his best performance since returning to the lineup after a five-game absence. During a game where there were several positives for the Maple Leafs, it was Matthews who ripped home a shot with excellent location and speed, bringing a sigh of relief and some excitement from the fans.

We want to avoid declarative statements, but a few more games like this from Matthews and Leafs fans might finally find some relief. A healthy Matthews lighting the lamp is the easiest path back to the playoffs.

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