In a back-and-forth preseason matchup, the Toronto Maple Leafs fell quick in opposition to the Ottawa Senators, shedding 6-5 in time beyond regulation. Regardless of a high-scoring affair, a number of key performances and points stood out. Listed here are three takeaways from the sport:
Though it’s not one of many three takeaways, Max Pacioretty had a surprisingly robust recreation for the Maple Leafs. He logged over quarter-hour of ice time and contributed two objectives and an help. His offensive presence was felt all through the sport, as he recorded six pictures on objective and confirmed that he can nonetheless be a key participant when wholesome.
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Takeaway One: William Nylander’s Offensive Prowess Shines Regardless of Defensively Difficult Night time
William Nylander continues to show his worth as one of many Maple Leafs’ high offensive skills. On this recreation, Nylander was on the forefront of producing scoring alternatives, establishing performs, and using his creativity to place the Senators’ protection on its heels.
Experimenting with the middle place, Nylander confirmed his versatility. He received just a few faceoffs and tailored nicely to a brand new position. This might be an asset for the Maple Leafs, particularly if he continues to develop in his faceoff talents. Nylander’s playmaking was instrumental in driving the offense. He persistently discovered area and created probabilities for himself and his teammates, contributing to the crew’s offensive push.
On the draw back, like a lot of his teammates, Nylander struggled on the defensive facet of the puck. The high-scoring recreation highlighted gaps in defensive protection. Nylander’s shift to heart confirmed that extra work is required on the defensive finish, significantly relating to backchecking and supporting his defensemen.
Takeaway Two: Excessive Rating Suggests Goaltending Points
The 6-5 scoreline indicated vital defensive and goaltending points for the Maple Leafs. Each Matt Murray and Joseph Woll had been examined all through the sport, however neither was capable of shut down the Senators’ offense persistently. Woll allowed 4 objectives earlier than being pulled, whereas Murray gave up two, together with the game-winner in time beyond regulation.
After a strong season final 12 months, Woll confronted some preseason inconsistency. This recreation wasn’t his greatest exhibiting, elevating questions on his kind heading into the common season. Murray appeared sharper however couldn’t maintain off Ottawa within the additional body. His potential as a dependable backup stays intact, however he’ll want stronger performances to problem for begins.
Takeaway Three: Defensive Breakdown and Particular Groups Efficiency
The Maple Leafs’ defensive lapses allowed Ottawa to capitalize on a number of alternatives. A mixture of turnovers, missed coverages, and an incapacity to shut down scoring probabilities left the Maple Leafs weak. The truth that they weren’t enjoying in opposition to the Senators’ greatest lineup made the sport a bit iffy.
The Maple Leafs’ energy play generally appeared harmful, scoring two objectives. Nonetheless, their penalty kill struggled to include Ottawa’s man benefit. The crew should tighten up their particular groups heading into the common season.
The Backside Line for Sport 1 of the Preseason
Though it’s nonetheless the preseason, the sport revealed the Maple Leafs’ strengths and weaknesses. Nylander’s offensive output stays a vibrant spot, and his potential transfer to heart may carry extra versatility to the lineup. Nonetheless, defensive breakdowns and goaltending issues have to be addressed earlier than the common season begins.
There’s nonetheless plenty of time to fine-tune these points, however the crew should give attention to tightening their play to satisfy their lofty expectations.
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