Leafs Win Hall of Fame Game

 

Last night, the Toronto Maple Leafs hosted the Detroit Red Wings, and before the game, there was a ceremony honoring this season’s Hall of Fame induction class. I have my thoughts on the Hall of Fame and its decision-making process, but that’s a write-up for another time.

Toronto seems to be finding its stride, with special teams play heating up. The penalty kill was once again solid, and the power play found the back of the net with two goals. Toronto has earned points in three of their four games so far this month. They have done a great job focusing on the details of the game and look like they’re playing with more confidence—a huge factor in that is the unbelievable goaltending effort from Anthony Stolarz. I’ve mentioned it before, but Anthony does an excellent job covering his angles and can make that big save when the team needs it. Late in the third period, with Toronto leading 2-1, Stolarz lost his glove and, during a mad scramble in front of the net, found the puck and froze it with his bare hand. He has been great for Toronto all season.

Toronto’s captain, Auston Matthews, was placed on injured reserve today due to an upper body injury. The earliest he can return would be Tuesday when Ottawa visits the Leafs. It was reported that there was no setback in his recovery, and Auston is expected to return for the Ottawa game. In classic Leafs fashion, the team seems to be virtually unbeaten when Matthews is out of the lineup. This has sparked debate in the media about whether the Leafs really need Auston Matthews. The simple answer is yes. The Leafs are a talented team with plenty of elite players, and the reason they can win without him is because of their “next man up” mentality. The players understand they must make up for what’s missing when Auston isn’t playing. Honestly, the fact that fans are even discussing this is ridiculous. Auston Matthews is a phenomenal player, and the team is even stronger when he’s on the ice.

Saturday night, the Leafs will continue their current homestand, looking for redemption after that 1-0 loss in Montreal on opening night. The Canadiens have lost their last five games, picking up just one point in that stretch. This is a game Toronto should win, but as we know, when these two rivals meet, you never know what will happen. The only certainty is that the contest will be an entertaining one. Thanks, as always, for reading.