The Leafs are now officially on a streak, beating the Calgary Flames 4-2 in their second win in Western Canada. And while expectations for the 29th and 32nd ranked teams are to be expected, the Leafs have a history of not performing in games like this and overall the season has meant that they can’t take games like this for granted.
When we talk about a Leafs win, it’s worth noting that this was primarily a Nylander win. William Nylander picked up points with the Leafs’ first three goals (1G 2A) and his goal in the opening minute covered up a wealth of the Leafs’ sins in the first, and the cycle between Nylander and Matthews to set up Stecher’s goal in the second reminded us that this team can be fun to watch if they show their talent a little. Nylander needs to come home more often.
Some other notes:
- Nic Roy stood out with some good looks, one Leaf who will hopefully argue for more responsibility in the remaining games this year.
- Stecher led the Leafs defensemen in ice time in the first inning and was the top blueliner, scoring a beautiful goal. It’s likely he’ll look to continue that performance Tuesday night against the team that waived him, the Edmonton Oilers.
- Nazem Kadri had the kind of play that former Leafs love to play, scoring a goal and an assist. If not for him, the Leafs could have continued to push for a blowout.
- A strong performance for Joseph Woll as he kept the Leafs in it numerous times, even if one or two were self-inflicted.
It’s not often that we walk away from a Leafs game that’s all about focusing on the positives, and it was far from a perfect game. A bigger effort up and down the lineup would be nice, but maybe a few players are trying to stay rested for Tuesday night in Edmonton.
The win puts Toronto seven points behind the Bruins for the final wild card spot.
PRESENTED BY OFF THE ROSTER
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