In an exhilarating extra time recreation in opposition to the Boston Bruins, the Toronto Maple Leafs got here up quick, falling 4-3. Regardless of the loss, the sport provided a couple of shiny spots for the Maple Leafs and a few areas for enchancment. What are the three key takeaways from the sport?
Takeaway 1: Anthony Stolarz Was Sharp in Web
Anthony Stolarz put up a powerful efficiency, making 30 saves and giving the Leafs a stable probability to win in Boston. Though Stolarz couldn’t take residence the win, he confirmed poise and consistency within the internet. Boston utilized strain all recreation lengthy, and Stolarz stood tall.
Stolarz’s present .927 save proportion speaks to his reliability. If he continues to play at this stage, he’ll present Toronto with a stable choice within the crease. Will he quickly share the workload with Joseph Woll? Or is he going to turn into the de facto starter? His play offers the Maple Leafs confidence as they transfer by way of the common season. Now, the crew has to tighten up its defensive play to cut back high-danger probabilities.
Takeaway 2. Defensive Breakdowns Price the Leafs
Toronto’s protection was caught off-guard throughout a tough second interval. After taking the lead, they allowed Boston to attain two objectives 36 seconds aside. Justin Brazeau and Mark Kastelic capitalized on defensive errors. On this space, the Maple Leafs want to enhance.
Giving up straightforward objectives is dear for a crew struggling to attain constantly. These breakdowns, particularly late in shifts or when drained, allowed the Bruins to drag forward. If the Maple Leafs count on to remain aggressive in tight video games, they have to handle these lapses of their zone.
Takeaway 3. Matthews’ and Marner’s Clutch Play Stored Toronto within the Recreation
Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner lastly confirmed up for the Maple Leafs. Matthews tied the sport with a tip-in off Marner’s shot from the purpose with simply 1:17 left in regulation, sending the sport to extra time and giving Toronto an opportunity to seize the win. Marner, who additionally assisted on Matthews’ purpose, has been a playmaking machine. He leads the crew with 10 factors in 9 video games.
Matthews’ extra time mistake appeared to stem from a miscommunication. He anticipated a teammate to be on the sidewall for a move, however that participant had already gone to the bench. This unlucky error underscored a scarcity of practiced timing and familiarity in essential moments. It value the crew management of the puck as they moved up the ice. Performs like this point out a crew nonetheless adjusting to a brand new system, with extra work wanted to sharpen communication and cohesion below coach Craig Berube’s management.
What’s Subsequent for Maple Leafs After OT Loss to Bruins?
The Maple Leafs now deal with their upcoming recreation in opposition to the Winnipeg Jets on Monday, trying to break their three-game shedding streak. With stable play from Matthews, Marner, and Stolarz, Toronto at all times has an opportunity for a win. It’s about time for an incredible efficiency in entrance of hometown followers.
Nonetheless, tightening up defensively and avoiding game-losing errors will probably be essential to pulling off a win in opposition to the Jets. It ought to be an excellent recreation. Who will get the shot within the crease? I believe Joseph Woll will get the decision.
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