Predators score two empty-net goals to beat the Maple Leafs 5-3 – The Hockey Writers Toronto Maple Leafs Latest News, Analysis & More

The Nashville Predators took on the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight in the final Saturday night game before the Christmas holidays.

Related: Maple Leafs need to hire Bruce Boudreau (or someone like him).

The Maple Leafs came into this game hoping to quiet the noise and build a positive atmosphere before halftime. Unfortunately, the Predators had other plans and took control of the match and won 5-3.

Now on to the game overview.

Summary of the game

1st Period:

The Maple Leafs took an early 1-0 lead 1:32 into the first period on a Nicolas Roy tip-in goal. After that, it looked like they would play a redemption game and come out on top. They had great pace and zone control, but unfortunately the Predators matched this and put an end to Toronto’s offense. By the end of the first period, the Maple Leafs led 1-0.

2nd Period:

In the second period, the Predators essentially took over the entire game. They finished chances and blocked shots, which was a coaching dream. They managed to get on the board just 4:56 into the period on an Erik Haula goal.

The game then remained tied until John Tavares scored at 11:57 of the second to give his club a 2-1 lead. And in typical Toronto fashion, they couldn’t hold on as Adam Wilsby scored with 30 seconds left to tie the game.

3rd Period:

In the third it was all Nashville. Toronto had chances, but they were defeated 3-1. The Predators got goals from Luke Evangelista, Steven Stamkos (empty net) and Cole Smith (empty net) to seal the deal. Bobby McMann scored a goal with an empty net with just over a minute remaining to cut the lead to 4-3. That was when Smith put the final nail in the coffin, scoring his fourth of the season and securing the victory.

In a high-profile game, the Maple Leafs were able to start strong and still blow. That’s been the story all season. For the Predators, they could make life much more difficult for the Maple Leafs, something teams from around the league have done all year long.