Instant Reaction: Maple Leafs’ supporting cast finally breaks out in 7-2 victory vs. Penguins
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been waiting for a night like this for weeks. And, while it wasn’t the prettiest 60 minutes of hockey, it was a great sight to see the supporting cast show up in a major way against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Nicolas Roy, Bobby McMann, Dakota Joshua, and Nick Robertson all broke out of lengthy goal slumps, helping lead the Leafs to a 7-2 blowout. The effort was there, they executed on grade-A chances, and they chased Penguins starter Arturs Silovs. However, there’s still plenty to clean up on the defensive end as the structure in the D-zone continues to be a work in progress, but let’s focus on some positives as the convincing victory was one of the Leafs best games of the season.
Easton Cowan was back on the scoresheet against the Pens, showing off some chemistry with William Nylander on a fancy give-and-go. Cowan had another strong game and continues to learn on the fly as a top-six rookie. You can tell with the plays he can make in tight spaces and his hockey IQ that big things are ahead for the former first-round pick.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson stayed hot, extending his point streak to nine games when he opened the scoring in the first period. However, in the third, Ekman-Larsson left the game and did not return, which is polar opposite of what this team needs right now. Ekman-Larsson was having one of his best games of the season before he got hurt. Dennis Hildeby received the start in net for the second half of the back-to-back, and was solid. Hildeby battled and looked very comfortable in the crease, which is also a great site for the Maple Leafs as Anthony Stolarz still isn’t travelling with the team.
Max Domi made his return to the lineup after his first experience being scratched as a Maple Leaf. Domi had some flashes of brilliance in Pittsburgh, including when he pried the puck away in the Penguins crease and made a nice feed to find Roy for a tap-in out front. Domi’s vision isn’t the issue, it’s his consistent effort and discipline, and while it wasn’t his best game of the season, he’s likely earned another look alongside Auston Matthews. With a couple of days off before their next game, a lot could change as trade talks continue around the league.
It was great to see the Maple Leafs get some swagger back in Pittsburgh. They played with a purpose, and the collective effort is a positive sign for a team searching for momentum. The Leafs are now 2-2 on their road trip, and will fly out Sunday and head south to take on the Florida Panthers on Tuesday. A day off on the beach or the golf course Sunday could help sustain this newfound positive momentum.
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offering a unique dining and social experience just steps from transit and the
arena—perfect for pregame meals before tip-off. Open weekdays from 11am to 10pm,
TABLE serves up morning treats, creative eats, and lively after-work events. With a
private terrace overlooking Toronto’s elevated park, guests enjoy stunning views
alongside year-round programming that includes food tastings, cooking classes, live
music, and pop-up events designed to spark connection and creativity.
Follow along @Tablefood hall or tablefoodhall.com