Latest news with #BruceArthur
National Post
03-06-2025
- Business
- National Post
Why some think Connor McDavid is leaving Edmonton Oilers
Article content No sooner had the Edmonton Oilers fought their way to their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final than hockey columnists in New York and Toronto fired up their laptops this weekend to speculate on McDavid signing his next contract with the Rangers or the Maple Leafs. Article content Article content First came an over-the-top headline from the New York Post: 'The Connor McDavid free agency question that hangs over the Oilers' Stanley Cup run.' Article content The article was more tepid, with long-time hockey columnist Larry Brooks writing, 'The question is whether No. 97 would be more or less incentivized to leave Edmonton as a free agent next summer, and follow the Messier Route to Broadway with or without a championship. Or maybe McDavid is committed for life, will sign an extension without fuss or muss this July, and thus would become the first franchise icon to go wire to wire in Alberta.' Article content That same day Bruce Arthur of The Toronto Star dug into the ongoing fantasy of McDavid signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Article content Wrote Arthur: 'One of the great quiet hopes in Toronto was always that Edmonton would be incompetent enough — or would stay incompetent enough, after one playoff series in the first six seasons of McDavid and Leon Draisaitl — that McDavid, a proud son of Thornhill, would want to come home…. That dream, of course, doesn't die. McDavid is signed through next season.' Article content Arthur continued: 'So why would he leave? If he wins in Edmonton the journey is complete, but would you leave Draisaitl for Matthews, who isn't as reliable as a co-star? Would you leave Evan Bouchard for Rielly, who isn't as productive a flawed talent at the back? The Oilers have won nine playoff series in the past four years, and are getting more depth scoring this year. The Leafs, meanwhile, are probably more than a Sam Bennett away from being killers. No, the only hope now is that after dragging Edmonton to a Cup with Draisaitl and company, McDavid decides to climb the tallest mountain: to rescue his hometown team from its self-inflicted torture and become as immortal as any hockey player has ever been. But he may already be on the road to that place, right where he is.' Article content Article content My take Article content 1. It's fair to wonder if McDavid will sign in Edmonton. Oilers fans ask themselves the same question, even as there are all kinds of signals that McDavid will stay, such as good friends and loyal teammates such as Leon Draisaitl and Darnell Nurse signing long-term deals here, not to mention the team signing McDavid's former agent Jeff Jackson as its hockey boss. Article content 2. All that said, the constant unfounded and hallucinatory nonsense out of Toronto, the universe's capital of Ontario, about McDavid0-to-the-Leafs can be tedious. Article content 3. It started in 2015 when the Oilers won the draft lottery with McDavid the prize. At once, Toronto sports writers covered themselves in bull dung. Some of them read McDavid's pensive reaction to the lottery as him not wanting to come to Edmonton. Toronto Sun sportswriter Steve Simmons opined on TSN: 'There is a reason that he looked unhappy, it's because he was unhappy … This isn't where Connor McDavid wanted to be drafted to.'
Toronto Star
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Toronto Star
Brendan Shanahan had plenty of success with the Leafs, but not enough to overcome one significant failure
When Brendan Shanahan came to Toronto, with the Maple Leafs' Stanley Cup drought approaching 50 years, he seemed like the right man for the impossible job. But the drought is almost 60 now, the longest any fan base has had to wait. And Thursday, after 11 years of incredibly unfulfilling success as team president, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment decided not to offer Shanahan a contract extension. As unique as he was, Shanahan's time with the Leafs has concluded the way every Leafs executive's time since 1967 has concluded: without a Cup, without lasting success, and trailed by the lingering echo of disappointment. The Shanaplan era is over. Bruce Arthur: The Shanaplan Maple Leafs shattered in plain sight. They don't trust themselves or each other 'Toronto is where I was born and raised, where my family still lives, and being a part of this historic franchise will always be one of the greatest honours of my life,' Shanahan said in a statement. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW To be clear: there was success. The Leafs have reached the playoffs nine consecutive years, something they hadn't done since their last Cup in 1967, in the final year of a six-team league. When Shanahan was hired in 2014, the Leafs had reached the playoffs once since 2004. He professionalized a shambolic organization, built a modern and multi-faceted front office, and set course, finally, for a patient rebuild. Even among Canadian franchises the Leafs were largely notable for going nowhere, but as fast as they could. Shanahan had the resumé, to a degree. He was a skilled, tough player; his hockey journey touched so many aspects of the game's history that he should write a book. (He insists he won't.) He was considered one of the brightest minds in hockey, led the revival of the game back toward offence in 2004, cracked down on head shots as the league's chief disciplinarian, and was hired by then-MLSE CEO Tim Leiweke in 2014, alongside Raptors counterpart Masai Ujiri. And Shanahan was a hometown guy who, when he won the Cup the first time as a player, took it to Apache Burgers on Dundas Street West. The Etobicoke native was the youngest of four Irish-Canadian brothers, and would say if there was only one potato on the table he'd get it. He won three Cups and Olympic gold and made the Hockey Hall of Fame, but fixing the Leafs meant a lot to him. Bruce Arthur: There's pressure playing in the centre of the hockey universe, but it comes from within with the Leafs 'Being born in Toronto does not necessarily make you a good executive with the Toronto Maple Leafs,' he told me in 2014, after being given the keys as team president. 'But this … was a very personal decision. This, to me, would mean more than anything I was able to accomplish as a player, because I am so emotionally invested in this place.' Shanahan rebuilt ties with alumni, Dave Keon above all. Game operations went from tin-eared to professional. He created Legends Row outside, retired jerseys inside, and turned the Leafs into a respectable organization off the ice. People forget how bad it was before Shanahan arrived. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW But he had never run a team, and somehow had limited networks in the game. He started with his management mentor Lou Lamoriello as GM, and his old coach Mike Babcock as head coach. Shanahan also cast around hockey for the smartest people he could find, and came up with Mark Hunter from the London Knights, and Kyle Dubas from the Soo Greyhounds. The Leafs hit on draft picks in successive drafts — William Nylander, Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews — but never delivered in the playoffs and the wreckage piled up. The big stars extracted big contracts from the club — there was never a sense of taking less to help the team, even if John Tavares could have made more in San Jose. Shanahan fired Lamoriello and replaced him with Dubas; the organization fired Babcock, and replaced him with Dubas's coach in Sault Ste. Marie, Sheldon Keefe. The Beaten Path: Part 2 Analysis The Shanaplan for the Leafs looked promising. Then along came the playoffs No one doubts the individual skill of the Leafs' Core Four of Matthews, Marner, Nylander and And Shanahan's strengths turned into weaknesses. He knew Toronto's failure often came as a result of impatience and pressure, so he vowed to block out the noise and be patient. He believed in measuring players by how they played in big games, but also believed failure would drive great players to become tougher in those big games. In Toronto, the latter overrode the former. So the Core Four of Matthews, Marner, Nylander and Tavares stayed. When Dubas finally decided he was going to change the core, he and Shanahan split. And every year — even the two years in which the Leafs actually won first-round playoff series — an embarrassing or dispiriting ending awaited. Shanahan was a big-game player who couldn't see his best guys weren't big-game players; he was a heart-and-soul obsessive who couldn't agree when Dubas decided Toronto's best players didn't hate losing enough to change. The Leafs have never been more methodical, more organizationally ambitious, and somehow, more disappointing, if only because unlike in the Harold Ballard years or the brief flashes of Doug Gilmour or Mats Sundin, this group had a long runway, real talent, and a chance to finally, finally, do something for the tortured fans in this cursed town. Leafs Opinion Nick Kypreos: The Leafs have undervalued Mitch Marner for years. They'll pay the price when he leaves It often seemed like Mike Babcock was trying to sabotage his development. And the team lowballed They failed, and Brendan Shanahan failed with them. And the Maple Leafs, once again, will have to try something new.
CBC
20-05-2025
- Sport
- CBC
What's next for the Toronto Maple Leafs after another crushing playoff exit?
Is it time for the team to make some big changes to its roster and front office? Toronto Star columnist Bruce Arthur breaks it down.
Toronto Star
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Toronto Star
Maple Leafs vs. Panthers: Toronto knocked out of Stanley Cup playoffs after humiliating Game 7 loss to Florida
The Toronto Maple Leafs were blown out 6-1 by the Florida Panthers in Game 7 on Sunday night, ending their season. The Leafs had a chance to reach their first Eastern Conference final since 2002. Instead, they lost another winner-take-all game. The team is now 0-6 in Game 7s since 2018. What you need to know Florida beats Toronto 6-1 in Game 7 Leafs fans left early, threw jerseys on ice Ref left game after scary incident Toronto is now 0-6 in Game 7s since 2018 Updated 7 mins ago Disapppointed Leafs fans leave Maple Leaf Square — again By Estella Ren Staff Reporter Waves of disappointed and angry fans began trickling out of the tailgate before the final buzzer, unable to watch any longer. Shouts of frustration erupted as Florida buried their sixth goal into an empty net, sealing the Leafs' fate. Updated 19 mins ago Time is winding down in Game 7 By Bruce Arthur Columnist It does seem unlikely that the Leafs will come back to win this game. But there is still plenty of time left for the Panthers to beat the Leafs to a few more loose pucks, win a few more puck battles, be more organized on a few more zone entries and exits, etc. Updated 26 mins ago Fans are leaving early and jerseys are on the ice as Panthers go up 5-1 By Bruce Arthur Columnist With that Sam Reinhart goal right off the faceoff, you could say, eh, they got lucky. But also: when that puck went past Joseph Woll Florida was outshooting the Leafs by a count of 28-14. In a Game 7. To go to the conference finals. So yeah, you're going to see some jerseys and more hit the ice. This is, even in the context of the Leafs, an extraordinary humiliation. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 32 mins ago The value of Leafs defenceman Chris Tanev By Bruce Arthur Columnist You want to hear something amazing? Chris Tanev, who is one of the better acquisitions in recent Leafs history, has somehow been on the ice for five shots on goal for and one against in a game where the Leafs are being outshot 25-14. The other end of the scale is John Tavares: when he has been on the ice, Toronto is being outshot 14-3. Updated 18 mins ago Leafs give one back to Panthers 47 seconds later By Bruce Arthur Columnist Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll lies in the net after stopping an attempt by the Florida Panthers in the second period. Chris Young The Canadian Press The Leafs were within two goals for 47 seconds. Brad Marchand, who has beaten the Leafs in four previous Game 7s, has his second assist. Oliver Ekman-Larsson lost a puck battle, among other things. Man, this Leafs team. Say it with me: it was 4-1. Updated 44 mins ago Max Domi gives Maple Leafs some life By Bruce Arthur Columnist Tavares-Matthews-Marner, Nylander-Domi-McMann, sure, why not, and Domi scores off a bad Florida chance and a neutral zone turnover. The Leafs are desperate, and Bobrovsky probably wants that one back. 3-1, and there are a little under 18 minutes left to score two more. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 39 mins ago Leafs fans are hurting after that second period By Bruce Arthur Columnist Fans react from Maple Leaf Square as they watch the Leafs play the Panthers in Game 7. Arlyn McAdorey THE CANADIAN PRES When you've lost Paul Bissonnette, you've lost a guy who cheers for this team no matter what. "This is brutal. This is men vs boys right now. Completely unprepared. I think they've lost every single 50-50 puck battle. Don't know how else to describe it but pathetic performance..." — Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 19, 2025 Updated 54 mins ago Is this the game that finally breaks Brendan Shanahan's Maple Leafs? By Bruce Arthur Columnist Panthers' Jonah Gadjovich celebrates after scoring Florida's third gial in Game 7. Steve Russell Toronto Star That period ranks up there with any collapse by this team in the last 10 years. That was an absolute embarrassment. You'd think the first period was a helpful near-death experience: get pushed backwards for 10 minutes, survive, push back. But no: Toronto was outshot 17-5 in the second period, out-attempted 39-13 — the 75 shot attempts by Florida through two periods is the most in the NHL this year, per the broadcast — and outscored 3-0, and it wasn't like they got beat by Florida's elite offensive guys. The Matthews line was on the ice for the first goal, and the Tavares line was on the ice for the second and third goals, and the goals were scored by Seth Jones on with most of the Barkov line, and then by Florida's third and fourth lines. The Tavares line is getting murdered. The Matthews line is treading water and producing nothing: no great chances, no push. The third line isn't going to score. The defensive corps looks like they've been getting hammered by Panthers for seven games. This is Game 5 all over again: no leadership, easily fractured trust and belief, and a team whose reliability in these moments cannot be relied on, even by themselves. You have to wonder whether after everything that has happened, this is the game that finally breaks the Brendan Shanahan Leafs. Updated 1 hr ago Leafs look like a team who knows it's already over By Bruce Arthur Columnist How you lose a game like this matters, because how you play a game like this matters. But Toronto is watching another failure happen to them, getting beaten to loose pucks, with really loose cohesion. More than anything, the Leafs look like a team that knows it's already over. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 1 hr ago Panthers embarrassing Leafs, who look slow and rattled By Bruce Arthur Columnist The only line that isn't getting absolutely buried is the Domi line. That's the fourth line, to be clear. Every other Leafs line looks too slow, too passive, too rattled. Toronto played half a period like they weren't the junior partner in this game, and have otherwise been embarrassed. The Panthers aren't parking the bus, either: they might dial the aggressiveness back a bit to avoid breakaways or odd-man rushes, but otherwise, these guys are trying to run up the score. Maybe they're taking nothing for granted; maybe they are trying to plant a seed of doubt in Toronto for future years. Or maybe the Leafs just aren't able to trust themselves and each other enough to play cohesive, alert, everyone-pulling-in-one-direction hockey. Also: Not sure why it isn't 4-0 right now. That looks like a good goal for Seth Jones, off a Morgan Rielly-Mitch Marner turnover. Updated 1 hr ago Maple Leafs completely collapse in second period By Bruce Arthur Columnist Florida Panthers winger Jonah Gadjovich celebrates his goal with teammates in Game 7. Frank Gunn THE CANADIAN PRESS Complete collapse. Complete. Turnover in the offensive zone; Brandon Carlo and then Morgan Rielly have trouble clearing the zone, and when the leafs do get out Tavares turns the puck over outside his own blue line and Florida's fourth line makes it 3-0. The Leafs responded to Florida in the first period. They have fallen apart in the second, and it's hard to see how they're going to wrestle this thing back. Tavares and Nylander were on the ice for the last two goals, and Toronto not only trails 3-0, but Florida is still pushing. Collapse. GADJO JOINS THE PARTY!!! — x - Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) May 19, 2025 Shot attempts in the period: Florida 27, Leafs 5. Shots: 11-1 Updated 1 hr ago Panthers rolling in the second as the ceiling caves in on Leafs By Bruce Arthur Columnist The ceiling is caving in now. Toronto needed a much better response after that first goal, and they haven't done so: Bobrovsky started a rush off a Pacioretty shoot in, the Panthers set up in the offensive zone again by winning a puck battle, Brad Marchand threw the puck at the net, and Anton Lundell cleaned up the rebound. Again, by the way: Marchand has beaten the Leafs in four previous Game 7s. And now Toronto sure as hell can't play rope-a-dope, counterattack hockey any more. That made it 2-0 Florida, and they weren't done yet ... ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 1 hr ago Panthers take the lead and the Leafs face some adversity By Bruce Arthur Columnist Florida Panthers defenceman Seth Jones, middle, celebrates his goal with teammates Aleksander Barkov, left, and Niko Mikkolain Game 7. Frank Gunn THE CANADIAN PRESS Matthews lost the puck in the offensive zone, and Marner couldn't save it; the Panthers dug it out, Morgan Rielly was too aggressive in the neutral zone, and Seth Jones got to walk in and beat Joseph Woll high, with no shot blockers in the way. 1-0 Florida, and the first real adversity of the game has now arrived. JONESY BREAKS THE ICE!!!!! — x - Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) May 19, 2025 Updated 1 hr ago Referee gets stick to face and exits game By Bruce Arthur Columnist Referee Chris Rooney is attended to as he's escorted off the ice after being clipped by a stick. Frank Gunn THE CANADIAN PRESS You never, ever want to see hockey players waving frantically to the bench for medical assistance. Referee Chris Rooney got a stick that lifted his helmet off and came very close to his eyes. Referee Chris Rooney gets a stick up high and has left the game, as Garrett Rank replaces him — Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 19, 2025 Scary. They had to scrape the blood off the ice. It's a wonder this doesn't happen more often, and speaks to how good the officials are at existing within the flow of a chaotic game. Garrett Rank is the backup official, and he is out there. Updated 1 hr ago Leafs and Panthers first period takeaways By Bruce Arthur Columnist Truly fascinating first period: The Leafs started in a coma, held onto the ropes, and then gradually figured out that this was a Game 7 and were something close to the better team in the second half of the period. Auston Matthews is winning puck battles; the Leafs are finding seams to counter Florida's aggressiveness; the Leafs PK has been a godsend as the series has gone on. The McMann-Domi-Pacioretty line was helpful; William Nylander had a real chance; the defensive structure is still holding, and Florida is still having a hell of a time getting all the way to the blue paint, where Joseph Woll has been good. So was Sergei Bobrovsky, for that matter, and he had more blue paint shots to deal with. But the Panthers had the first 25 shot attempts, and it was 17-6 at 5-on-5 for the Leafs the rest of the way. Which is more repeatable? You'd guess Florida, but that wasn't a period that was enough to give hope to either team, depending on how you look at it. Everyone survived the first 20 minutes: 40 to go, at least. The Leafs also blocked 14 shots in that period. As colleague James Mirtle noted, the most blocked shots in one game by any team this season was 36. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 1 hr ago Hailey and Justin Bieber in attendance for Game 7 By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star Justin Bieber during the NHL all-star draft at Scotiabank Arena in 2024. Steve Russell Toronto Star Diehard Maple Leafs fan Justin Bieber couldn't miss Game 7. The Canadian singer was shown on the Sportsnet broadcast sitting right behind the Toronto bench with his wife, Hailey. Justin and Hailey Bieber are on the scene for Game 7 👋 — Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 19, 2025 Bieber, who grew up in Stratford, has been posting about the Leafs on Instagram throughout the playoffs. He has collaborated with the team in the past and was a big part of the NHL All-Star Game in Toronto last season. Updated 2 hrs ago Leafs caught with six skaters on the ice By Bruce Arthur Columnist Taking a too many men penalty in a Game 7 is like asking the boxer opposite to take a free swing. Thankfully for them, they killed it off as the period came to a close. Updated 2 hrs ago After a slow start, the Leafs made a statement of their own By Bruce Arthur Columnist The big difference right now is Florida gets contested chances and Toronto gets breakaways for Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz. Oh, and the Leafs have now recorded seven consecutive shots on goal after Florida got the first seven, though I have some doubts about whoever is operating the shot clock here. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 2 hrs ago Leafs respond with scoring chances of their own By Bruce Arthur Columnist Hard to overstate how it important it was for Toronto to survive the first 10 minutes of this game. They're not watching the game anymore, and the traffic is all going the other way, with some extended shifts and real chances. Scott Laughton isn't the guy you want on a breakaway, but any breakaway is better than no breakaway. All in all, the Leafs have probably had the better opportunities. Also, it's early, but it's possible this game is being played under prison rules, and of these two teams, the Panthers are probably in better shape, since they always kind of play by prison rules. Updated 2 hrs ago Nylander comes close as Leafs find some life By Bruce Arthur Columnist The Leafs first actual shot on goal could very, very easily have been a goal: William Nylander just drifted too far to properly lift the puck. But he — and the Matthews line before him — seemed to realize it's more fun playing at the other end of the ice. Nylander just needed to stay with the play a little longer: he was skating to nowhere. Updated 2 hrs ago Maple Leafs offence is struggling early By Bruce Arthur Columnist The Leafs are treating the puck the way someone people treat the Stanley Cup: it's like they don't want to touch it because it's bad luck. Come to think of it, the Leafs franchise has also adopted this approach over the last 57 years, too. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 2 hrs ago Panthers all over the Maple Leafs to start Game 7 By Bruce Arthur Columnist One thing about watching Florida in the last three years, and again tonight: forget the hitting for a second, and forget the swagger. These guys know exactly how they want to manage the puck. Jesus, have they had a start to Game 7: skating hard, calm puck exchanges, getting to where the puck is going to be and utterly controlling the play. They have so many guys who are so good at the skeleton keys of puck possession. The first 21 shot attempts, and counting, belong to Florida. Updated 2 hrs ago Panthers off to a fast start By Bruce Arthur Columnist Well, Florida has gotten their first five-hour offensive shift of the game out of the way. The second period of Game 6 looked a lot like that. Nothing too dangerous, but enough of those and the bar for what's dangerous drops. Updated 2 hrs ago Brad Marchand a thorn in Leafs' side By Bruce Arthur Columnist For the record, Brad Marchand has been on the winning side in four Game 7s against the Toronto Maple Leafs; he even assisted on the winning goal in overtime in 2013. Tonight is the 13th Game 7 of his career. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 2 hrs ago 'We're gonna win': Maple Leafs fans bring energy to the tailgate By Estella Ren Staff Reporter As puck drops nears, a sea of blue and white washed over Maple Leaf Square on Sunday night, as fans screamed themselves hoarse, waved towels high in the air, and braced for the do-or-die drama of Game 7, with excited smiles stretching across nearly every face in the crowd. Fans chanted 'Go Leafs Go' at the top of their lungs, waving homemade signs that read, 'It's our year' and 'The devil is moving to Florida.' At the tailgate party, fans showed off their moves — breakdancing on the pavement, doing handstands and even the splits on the interactive stage — turning the square into a full-blown celebration before the first faceoff. 'We're winning. We're gonna win,' said Shawn McFadden, 54, a lifelong Leafs fan who had watched the earlier games against the defending Panthers from a beach in Jamaica last week. 'I want to see them win once, just to shut up all the haters. I'm not greedy. One Stanley Cup,' he said. Updated 3 hrs ago Maple Leafs can change narrative of the Auston Matthews era By Bruce Arthur Columnist God, Game 7s can be beautiful. Toronto played Game 7s in 2018 and 2019 in Boston. They played a deciding Game 5 against Columbus in 2020 and the fateful Game 7 against Montreal in 2021 in Toronto, but in Covid-emptied arenas. They played Game 7 in Tampa in 2022, and in Boston in 2024. None of those games went terribly well. And now, something new: a Game 7 in Toronto in front of a home crowd, with a chance to reach the franchise's first conference final since 2002. An NHL defenceman named Eric Brewer once told me of Game 7s, 'You have to keep your mind in small places, and not get too far ahead of yourself.' That's good advice, really. If you think about how a Game 7 really works — how irrevocable a mistake can be, how indelible success can be, the stakes of every decision — you could freeze, overthink, or even choke. Especially in overtime, god. One of the most amazing things about a Game 7 OT is how as soon as it ends, the winning players explode, and the losing players have their strings cut. You can't think about that, as you play. Can these Leafs keep their minds in small places? We're nearly a decade into the Matthews-Marner-Nylander-Rielly-and-eventually Tavares era, with so little actual playoff success to show for it. Mitch Marner is a free agent this summer, and presumably, so is team president Brendan Shanahan. Things could change. But more, everyone will be a year older, with less room left on the road. Toronto has been aching for this team to just prove itself worthy, just once, in the really big moments, for so long now. The core four Leafs won a Game 6 in Tampa and a Game 6 in Ottawa to win their two playoff series in the last nine years, and everything else has been different flavours of failure. Some have been extraordinarily painful. It's the rule of the franchise, until it's changed. And now, a Game 7 at home. Will the crowd be tight? Will Toronto give them license to cheer without too much fear? Will Matthew Knies be physically limited, and if so, how much? Can the Leafs finish a series against the defending Stanley Cup champs? The disciplined, defensive game Toronto played in Game 6 was a blueprint, but that was also a game that easily could have tipped the other way in the second period, or on any of Florida's four power plays. The Leafs have scored two goals in their last three games; not scoring when it mattered has been everything, for this core. So let's watch. Toronto has failed in this situation before, and not always in the same way, whereas the Panthers won a Game 7 in the Cup final against Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl last season, so you know who knows how to do this. This is a legacy game for Toronto, more than most. And this is another chance, after nearly a decade of them, for these Leafs to learn. Game 7 has a chance to be beautiful, or not. Updated 3 hrs ago Joseph Woll's historic playoff stat By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star Leafs goalie Joseph Woll has been clutch when facing elimination in the post-season. Richard Lautens Toronto Star It's no secret that the Leafs will need Joseph Woll to be sharp to beat the Panthers in Game 7. The Leafs goaltender, who's coming off a shutout in Game 6, has put up historic numbers when facing elimination in the post-season. According to Sportsnet Stats, Woll's 1.13 goals-against average in potential elimination games is the second lowest in NHL history among goalies who have played in at least five of those games. Ben Bishop is a touch ahead with a 1.11 GAA. Woll took over the Leafs' net in Game 1 of this series after Anthony Stolarz suffered an injury. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 3 hrs ago Game 7 has been a struggle in Matthews era By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star The Leafs have a chance to turn their Game 7 fortunes around against the Panthers tonight. Since the Auston Matthews era began in 2018, the longest-tenured Leafs players — Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander and Morgan Rielly — are 0-5 in Game 7s. In those five games, Matthews has three assists, Marner has two assists, Nylander has two goals and two assists and Rielly has one goal and one assist. Updated 4 hrs ago Did Drake just curse the Maple Leafs? By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star As if Maple Leafs fans didn't already have enough curses to worry about, Drake may have just added another one. The Toronto rapper is known for placing massive wagers on major sports events and, since he's often come out on the losing end — just last year he bet half a million dollars on the Edmonton Oilers to win in the Stanley Cup final — some say that if Drake bets on a team, they become cursed. Instagram screenshot Drake is aware of how sports fans feel about his bets. He asked his Instagram followers if he should bet on the Leafs and one of the poll options was, 'no, you will curse it.' Alas, over 60 per cent of the vote said yes, he should bet on the Leafs, so he put $1 million on Toronto to win in Game 7, and another $250K for them to win by two. Instagram screenshot It's probably fine … right? Updated 4 hrs ago Maple Leafs marvel at Mark Scheifele's courage after dad's death By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter When Mark Scheifele took to the ice on Saturday night for the Winnipeg Jets in Dallas, playing through the grief of his father's death, he had the hockey world's attention, admiration and sympathy. 'My heart goes out to him and his family,' Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube said before Sunday's Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. 'The courage you show to play that game, and he played well. It's a terrible situation, you feel for him. But I understand why he played, I really do. That's a tough day for everybody.' Scheifele did it not just to help his team but to honour his father, Brad, whose death was announced the morning of Game 6 against the Stars. Scheifele scored, but the Jets lost in overtime with Scheifele serving a penalty at the time of Thomas Harley's winner, which sent Dallas to the Western Conference final against the Edmonton Oilers. The Jets were eliminated. The handshake line was more emotional than most. Read the full story here. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 8 hrs ago Forget the past. Maple Leafs fans still BeLeaf By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star Leafs fans celebrate a third-period goal by Max Pacioretty in Game 6. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star A quick search of the word 'BeLeaf' on any social media platform on Sunday morning shows where the minds of many Maple Leafs fans are at ahead of Game 7. Leafs fans are used to having their hearts broken. And yet, many are making it clear that they firmly believe their team can finally exorcise their playoff demons and beat the Florida Panthers on Sunday night. If any fans are looking for some positivity, look no further than the Leafs fan known as Hockey Illuminati, who always finds the most obscure reasons to be convinced that the Leafs are due for a win. 'For those who do not believe ... we do not accept your energy,' he says. @hockey_illuminati IT GETS DONE THIS TIME ✊🏼 ♬ original sound - HOCKEY ILLUMINATI Meanwhile on Saturday Night Live, Scarborough native Mike Myers closed out the show's 50th season while wearing a Toronto Maple Leafs shirt. As the closing credits rolled, he turned his back to the camera to reveal the words 'support your local hockey team' written across the back. Thank you, Scarlett Johansson, Bad Bunny, Mike Myers, and RaiNao! Goodnight! — Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) May 18, 2025 The Leafs are looking for their first Game 7 victory since 2004 tonight, and they have a chance to do it on home ice. 'It's excitement for our group, playing at home here in front of our crowd,' said Leafs coach Craig Berube. 'Passionate crowd. Passionate fans. Passionate city.' Fans in attendance at Scotiabank Arena will have light-up bracelets waiting for them at their seats. Hopefully for them, there will be plenty to cheer about. Updated 10 hrs ago Maple Leafs pre-game notebook: Knies 'good to go' and home-ice advantage By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies is ready go to go for tonight's winner-take-all Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. All the Leafs were present and accounted for at today's morning skate at the Scotiabank Arena, with Knies taking usual his spot in line rushes with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. 'He's good to go,' said Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube. There was concern after he took a hit from Aaron Ekblad in Game 6. He finished the game but was used only sporadically after that. Berube said he 'anticipates using him' like he normally would. Also in today's pre-game notebook: The Leafs fought all year for home-ice advantage, and have it tonight. They believe it's going to help. With Winnipeg, Washington and Vegas all second-round casualties, the Leafs are the highest seed remaining in the playoffs. Read the full Game 7 notebook here. Updated 10 hrs ago Matthew Knies expected to play in Game 7, Berube says By Braydon Holmyard Toronto Star Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky stops Leafs forward Matthew Knies in Game 6 on Friday. AP Photo/Lynne Sladky Matthew Knies, who had an injury scare against the Panthers in Game 6, is expected to play in Game 7 on Sunday, Leafs coach Craig Berube told reporters. Knies was on the ice and playing with his usual line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner at the team's morning skate. Matthew Knies out for the morning skate — Kevin McGran (@kevin_mcgran) May 18, 2025 Knies took a reverse hit from Aaron Ekblad in the second period on Game 6. He left the game in obvious discomfort and played sparingly in the third period. 'I used him in situational play more than anything,' Leafs coach Craig Berube said after the game. 'Down the stretch (I asked him) if he was good to go or he wasn't good to go. So it was more for me just talking to him on the bench to understand where he was at the time.' Knies played just 13 minutes on Friday while averaging over 20 minutes per game throughout these playoffs. He has five goals and two assists in 12 playoff games so far. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 5 hrs ago Why the Maple Leafs' Game 7 challenge resonates from Bay Street to Broadway By Dave Feschuk Sports Columnist Fans celebrate a goal by Max Pacioretty (67) as the Leafs beat the Panthers 2-0 in the 6th game of round 2 of the playoffs. Richard Lautens / Toronto Star As Sunday's Game 7 looms after the Maple Leafs flew home Saturday to rest and prepare, a fan would have been excused for believing there's something unusual in the air. No, not the smell of stinking rich owners cackling at the windfall of another home playoff gate at Scotiabank Arena. That's the in-house fragrance nobody even notices anymore. We're referring to one of the best sports stories of the spring, when unexpected celebrations have broken out among the long-suffering supporters of a legacy franchise based in a financial centre that considers itself a sporting capital. These are the ghosts the Maple Leafs hope to exorcise in Game 7 against the Panthers But it could also fit a certain NHL team from the centre of the hockey universe. If the Leafs beat the Florida Panthers in Game 7, they'll earn their first trip to the Eastern final since 2002. Full column here from Dave Feschuk Updated 10 hrs ago These are the ghosts the Maple Leafs hope to exorcise in Game 7 against the Panthers By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter Leafs John-Michael Liles pays the price along the boards when he's crushed by the Bruins' Daniel Paille during 3rd period action December 8, 2013. Rick Madonik/ Toronto Star 'It was 4-1.' That simple sentence resonates deeply within the soul of today's generation of Maple Leafs fans. It hearkens back to the 2013 first-round series played by the Phil Kessel-era Leafs that turned a three-goal third-period advantage into a 5-4 overtime loss to the Boston Bruins — on goals with 10:42, 1:22 and 51 seconds remaining. It's the granddaddy of Game 7 heartbreak. It was also the beginning of the end of that era of Leafs, with Brendan Shanahan hired as team president a year later. But the core has gone through its share of heartache in winner-take-all contests. Take a trip down memory lane with the Star here. Updated 7 hrs ago How the Maple Leafs are preparing for Game 7 against the Panthers By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter Maple Leafs defenceman Simon Benoit greets his goaltender Joseph Woll after the Game 6 win in Florida. Icon Sportswire Icon Sportswire FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—William Nylander walked up from the beach and sat in a chair in the shaded patio outside the team hotel. Brandon Carlo was already there, feet up. Simon Benoit joined them within minutes. It was just idle chit-chat among them, some phone time, while they waited — in no rush, really — to get on the bus that would take them to the airport for a flight back to Toronto, where the Maple Leafs will play the biggest game of their season on Sunday night: Game 7 against the Florida Panthers. The winner moves on to the Eastern Conference final against the Carolina Hurricanes. The loser will feel like a season was wasted. Auston Matthews scored the winner in the third period as the Maple Leafs shut out the Florida Panthers 2-0 to force Game 7 in their second-round playoff series. (May 17, 2025 / The Canadian Press) 'We stayed overnight here so we can at least relax for a while and rest,' said coach Craig Berube, on the one-year anniversary of his hire. 'It's just getting away from it for a bit here and relaxing, and then getting some rest. That's really important, because we're going to need the energy in Game 7. Rest is really crucial right now.' Leafs Auston Matthews and Joseph Woll save the Maple Leafs' season. And now, Game 7 If there was a template of the game that Craig Berube has been preaching, none fit it better than Game 6 against the Panthers in Florida on Friday Leafs Auston Matthews and Joseph Woll save the Maple Leafs' season. And now, Game 7 If there was a template of the game that Craig Berube has been preaching, none fit it better than Game 6 against the Panthers in Florida on Friday More so perhaps for Matthew Knies. He took a big hit from Aaron Ekblad in the second period of Game 6 on Friday and played only sporadically after that. When Berube met the media on Saturday morning, he had yet to receive a medical update. 'I will today, though, at some point,' said Berube. '(I'll learn) how we've got to proceed going forward here with him.' Knies, the youngest Leaf at 22, is an important component on the top line and power play. 'He touches every part of the game,' said Berube. 'He scored some big goals for us. He's been a very good player in the playoffs here and throughout the season.' The Leafs worked all year to get home-ice advantage — winning the Atlantic Division was an oft-stated goal — and the reward is sleeping in your own bed on the night before the game, having the backing of the home crowd, and last change among the on-ice tactics. 'It's exciting,' said Leafs forward Scott Laughton. 'We did our job here. We still have a job to do. It's always fun. Game 7 at home in Toronto. It's pretty electric, so it's going to be exciting and we've got to be ready to go. 'Every shift, every puck battle are so important in these situations ... every play matters.' The Leafs took care of business and forced Game 7 with a pitch-perfect 2-0 win on Friday night. It was the recipe Berube likes: keep the game close, then break it open in the third period. Goals by Auston Matthews and Max Pacioretty did just that. Now the Leafs are giving off vibes that they are all calm, cool and collected. No one is on edge. No one is showing any signs that the pressure is getting to them. They're exuding a quiet confidence, which is all anyone can ask between games. Leafs Opinion Dave Feschuk: Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs see the light and stay alive in Game 6. Now they have to do it again If Game 5 against the Florida Panthers was lost thanks to paralysis by analysis, the Leafs suffered no such affliction in Game 6. Leafs Opinion Dave Feschuk: Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs see the light and stay alive in Game 6. Now they have to do it again If Game 5 against the Florida Panthers was lost thanks to paralysis by analysis, the Leafs suffered no such affliction in Game 6. The last time the Leafs made it to a conference final, they bowed out in five games to Carolina in 2002. The last time they won a Game 7, it was over the Ottawa Senators in the first round in 2004. They are 12-15 all-time in Game 7s, 7-3 on home ice. While many Leafs have only experienced Game 7 disappointment, a few recent additions have the opposite experience. The last Game 7 Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Steven Lorentz played in won them the Stanley Cup in Florida. 'I'm trying to help the team out in any way I can,' said Ekman-Larsson. 'I'm a positive guy. I'm trying to be positive and trying to keep the room light and cheer them on.' Of course, their ex-teammates on the Panthers had that same success. 'Personally, I enjoy them,' said Panthers coach Paul Maurice. 'As you get older, you enjoy the more unusual events of your life. I think you're more aware of them. So Game 7 is cool.' Maurice perhaps best summed up what separates Game 7s from the rest of the playoffs. 'You want to win in four,' he said. 'You do, 100 per cent. But the Game 7s, you'll remember. 'There's not a lot of them. They're more intense, but there's a freedom in Game 7 that's not anywhere else. On both teams you've got guys dealing with stuff, physical stuff. And they will say, 'I just got to play one more game.' Now if they get to play one more game after that, they'll deal with that then. But in the moment in the warm-up, whatever they're dealing with becomes far more mentally manageable. So everybody goes, and everybody goes hard. There's a freedom to Game 7 that's not like any other.' The game is at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday at Scotiabank Arena. The final hours leading up to it might feel like an eternity. 'You wait around for it all day, which is a little bit painful,' said Berube, whose St. Louis Blues won the Stanley Cup in a Game 7 in 2019. 'But once it gets going, it's great. You're in the moment. There's a lot of emotion going on in the game, a lot of intensity. As the head coach, it's important to stay calm and keep your players directed in the right way and staying calm, too. 'But it's a lot of fun.' Read more ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 7 hrs ago Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs see the light and stay alive in Game 6. Now they have to do it again By Dave Feschuk Sports Columnist Auston Matthews opened the scoring for the Maple Leafs with their season on the line in the third period of Friday night's Game 6 against the Panthers in Fla.—Maybe the Maple Leafs found what they'd been missing on the way to Friday's do-or-die Game 6. As head coach Craig Berube reeled off an inventory of areas in need of improvement in the wake of Wednesday's humiliating 6-1 loss in Game 5, that sent the Leafs to South Florida on what was easy enough to cast as a death march, most of the coach's list of demands amounted to fundamental stuff. The Leafs, Berube said, needed to skate, because they 'stood around and watched' too often Wednesday. They needed to compete harder, because they were in the midst of a three-game playoff losing streak in which they were losing far too many puck battles. But beyond all that, Berube offered another piece of advice as his team attempted to stave off elimination. 'You have to enjoy the moment,' said the coach. 'This is what guys play for.' Leafs Auston Matthews and Joseph Woll save the Maple Leafs' season. And now, Game 7 Kevin McGran So, for all the grim whispers around this team and the cacophony of social-media doomsaying online, Friday's morning skate in nearby Fort Lauderdale was occasionally accompanied by a joyous whoop from one smiling Leaf or another. And Friday night's 2-0 win saw the Leafs do what their coach suggested they do: shake the weight of the world off their slumped shoulders and play freely, as though the game is fun. Because winning certainly is. 'It is fun. It's hockey. It's competition. It's what you dream of as a kid growing up, playing in games that matter,' Chris Tanev, the Leafs defenceman, said before the game. 'So we need to embrace the moment, enjoy the moment and live in the moment.' Auston Matthews scored the winner in the third period as the Maple Leafs shut out the Florida Panthers 2-0 to force Game 7 in their second-round playoff series. (May 17, 2025 / The Canadian Press) A game after Berube lamented how his team was guilty of 'overthinking' as the Panthers clobbered the Leafs in a game that inspired boos at Scotiabank Arena, it was Toronto that caught the Panthers flat-footed more than once with the season on the line. This was a tight game, with not much separating the sides. But ultimately it was the Leafs preying on Florida mistakes that made the difference. Auston Matthews scored the game's opening goal on a feed from Mitch Marner after Florida's Aaron Ekblad bobbled a breakout pass at the home team's blue line with 13:40 remaining in the third period. It was Matthews's first career goal in 11 second-round playoff games, and it came on his 24th shot of the series. But it couldn't have come at a better time. AUSTON MATTHEWS PUTS THE LEAFS IN THE LEAD!! 😤 — Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 17, 2025 'I've had some good opportunities all series,' Matthews said. 'I'm just going to continue to shoot and believe the next one's going in.' After Max Pacioretty beat Florida defenceman Nate Schmidt in a sprint to the net front and scored on a cross-ice pass from Bobby McMann to make it 2-0, a team that looked dispirited in Game 5 was on the way to being rejuvenated by victory in Game 6. Joseph Woll's 22-save shutout, the first of his playoff career, sealed the deal. The Leafs are now 7-8 when facing elimination in the Shanaplan era. That they're 0-5 in Game 7s — hey, at least they've got another chance to prove themselves in Sunday's winner-take-all contest at Scotiabank Arena. What can the Leafs expect? 'It's fun,' said the 36-year-old Pacioretty, who has played in four Game 7s and been on the winning side of three. 'I can't wait. We're going to war.' Hockey Opinion Dave Feschuk: Frederik Andersen gave the Maple Leafs his all. Now he's giving the Hurricanes something better Dave Feschuk The Panthers, as defending Stanley Cup champions, will no doubt be installed as favourites. But it's not as though Florida hasn't shown vulnerabilities. As Panthers coach Paul Maurice said in th e lead-up to Friday's game, Florida hasn't exactly figured out how to plug the holes that have allowed the Leafs to find good scoring chances on Sergei Bobrovsky. And for all the outcry about Toronto's flat performance in Game 5, Maurice pointed out that, according to Florida's analytics, it was far closer than the lopsided score suggested. 'They're in alone on us a bunch of times,' Maurice said. 'I don't think we're getting rid of all of (Toronto's chances), but that's why Sergei is what he is to us. That's how important he is. To completely prevent it, we would have to completely change how we play, and we're a little far down the road for that now.' The Leafs have often played well in moments when large swaths of their fan base have written them off, and Friday's game was no different. Toronto supplied a sharp opening period, outshooting the Panthers 7-2 thanks to a defensive approach that kept the opponent to the outside and prioritized cutting off shooting lanes. The tireless Tanev blocked more shots in the first period (four) than Woll was required to stop (two). The Leafs blocked a series-high 31 shots all told, and managed the puck to near perfection. 'We played a simple game tonight, and we were determined,' Berube said. 'That stands out to me more than anything — determination.' Leafs Even after a trying season, Maple Leafs defenceman Jani Hakanpää finds plenty to smile about Kevin McGran Florida tilted the ice in the second period, when referees somehow missed the moment Florida captain Aleksander Barkov inserted his stick underneath Matthews's visor — a clip that required Matthews to make a momentary trip down the tunnel for treatment. So it was understandable that Matthews was irate when he was called for high-sticking Ekblad in the midst of a second-period Toronto power play. For all that, the game was scoreless heading into the second intermission. Patience was required, and the Leafs showed plenty. If Game 5 was lost thanks to Toronto's paralysis by analysis, the Leafs suffered no such affliction in Game 6. That's a step in the correct direction en route to a chance at Game 7 redemption. Berube, who's 2-1 in Game 7s as a head coach with a win that includes the Stanley Cup clincher with St. Louis in 2019, was asked what's in store on Sunday. 'They're fun,' Berube said, speaking of Game 7s. 'I don't know how players think nowadays, but when I was growing up, and all the people that I knew growing up, they always dreamed of playing in a Game 7 … Everything's on the line. We gotta come out in Game 7 and do the same things we did (in Game 6). It's not fancy. It's just competing. It's direct. It's simple hockey.' Read more Updated 7 hrs ago Leafs faithful look forward to Game 7 after a crucial 2-0 win on Friday flag wire: false flag sponsored: false article_type: : sWebsitePrimaryPublication : publications/toronto_star bHasMigratedAvatar : false : By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter, and Ilyas Hussein Staff Reporter Leafs fans celebrate a third-period goal by Max Pacioretty in Game 6. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star A massive crowd of fans dressed in white and blue clustered together in Maple Leaf Square outside Scotiabank Arena, waiting for the puck drop at 8 p.m. They shouted, waved towels, shook noisemakers. They were grinning — they believed the Leafs could make it happen and force a Game 7 back here on Sunday night. After a scoreless first and second period, the optimism turned to nerves. Then Leafs captain Auston Matthews broke the game open with a third-period goal, and the throng of Toronto supporters erupted. Later in the third, Toronto forward Max Pacioretty made it 2-0, the final score of a crucial Game 6 against the Florida Panthers. 'I'm buzzing with excitement,' said Sarah Arshad, a self-described 'huge' Leafs fan, after the game. 'It's so incredible, especially after the last game. They were playing so, so well, and coming out with those two goals and winning was just the icing on top of the cake.' Auston Matthews scored the winner in the third period as the Maple Leafs shut out the Florida Panthers 2-0 to force Game 7 in their second-round playoff series. (May 17, 2025 / The Canadian Press) At the beginning of the game, fans were cautiously optimistic. 'It's the playoffs,' said fan Josh Wulff, whose collection of Leafs memorabilia has reached 'not even funny' levels. 'If you don't come to play, you're not going to win. Let's hope the boys bring it tonight, and let's bring the cup home.' Leafs Auston Matthews and Joseph Woll save the Maple Leafs' season. And now, Game 7 If there was a template of the game that Craig Berube has been preaching, none fit it better After the first period, with still no goals in sight, the crowd's energy died down, but fan Evan Dantas remained upbeat. 'We're playing physical, we're playing fast, we're not shying away,' he said. 'We're taking it to them, so if we keep the pressure on, if we keep outshooting them… we're going to win the game.' The game wore on, 0-0. 'I'm a little stressed out,' admitted fan Ireland Hosick. 'It's looking a little too even right now. The first half the Leafs were on top. The second half the Florida Panthers were on top. This game is way too even. I'm thinking overtime, maybe.' Then, a reprieve: Matthews scored. Maple Leaf Square went wild. They shook each other by the shoulders, threw their popcorn in the air, and grinned up at the big screen. When Pacioretty doubled the lead, fans knew it was a done deal. Fans celebrate the Auston Matthews goal Game 6 of the second round between the Leafs and Panthers on May 17, 2025. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star The Game 6 victory forces a win-or-go home Game 7 on Sunday in Toronto. But the Leafs have seen their fair share of playoff heartbreak in recent years. Toronto is 2-13 in series-clinching games since 2018. That year, against the Boston Bruins, the Leafs had a 4-3 lead heading into the third period of Game 7 before allowing four unanswered goals. In 2019, again against the Bruins, they had a 3-2 series lead and then lost two straight games. A year later, they lost in the bubble after a historic comeback in Game 4 against the Columbus Blue Jackets, technically not even qualifying for the playoffs. They went up 3-1 against the Montreal Canadiens in 2021, and then lost three straight. 2022 was a repeat of 2019, but that time to the Lightning, who they beat in the first round of the following year — only to lose in five games to the Panthers in the second round. Finally, last season, they stormed back from a 3-1 deficit to the Bruins, yet again, before losing in overtime in Game 7. The Leafs entered Friday night staring down elimination, down 3-2 in their best-of-seven second-round series against Florida. After winning the first two games at home to go up 2-0, the Leafs lost both on the road in Florida's Amerant Bank Arena before suffering a 6-1 shellacking in the pivotal Game 5 on home ice. Fans hope Sunday will be different. 'Oh my God, I'm so excited,' says Hazel Kibria, who has played hockey and watched the Leafs for many years. 'I wasn't even sure if we were going to win, but I had hope for everyone … I'm just really excited about this one.' Read more Updated May 17, 2025 at 7:32 a.m. Leafs vs. Panthers Game 6 recap: Toronto wins 2-0 with goals from Matthews and Pacioretty, will return home for Game 7 flag wire: false flag sponsored: false article_type: : sWebsitePrimaryPublication : publications/toronto_star bHasMigratedAvatar : false : By Bruce Arthur Columnist, and Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter Auston Matthews celebrates a goal against the Florida Panthers with teammates during the third period of Game 6 at Amerant Bank Arena on May 16, 2025 in Sunrise, live blog is no longer being updated. The Maple Leafs and Panthers are now tied 3-3 in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs after Toronto won Game 6 on Friday in Sunrise, Fla. What to know: Toronto won 2-0 after Matthews and Pacioretty both scored in the third period Leafs forward Matthew Knies appears to be battling a new injury Game 7 is on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ET in Toronto Read more ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated May 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Passing on the 'passion': How Leafs fans buckled up for this playoff run by taking on a wrestling-inspired tradition By Ilyas Hussein Staff Reporter Fans across the city — and beyond — have been passing a WWE-style belt from one superfan to another after every game, win or lose, celebrating team spirit and forming a unique connection with the club. Submitted photos It started with the team. After every win, a Maple Leafs player would hoist a WWE-style belt, passed from one to the next. It was a symbol of grit. A sign of effort. A badge of honour. But this playoff run, the tradition has spilled into the stands. Dubbed the 'Passion Belt' online, the Leafs introduced the replica championship strap for fans before the playoffs began. Fans across the city — and beyond — have been passing it from one superfan to another after every game, win or lose, celebrating team spirit and forming a unique connection with the club. 'It's pretty spectacular to see how passionate Leafs Nation is,' said Eric Pronio, who had the belt for Game 5 in the Leafs' opening-round series against the Ottawa Senators. 'I like to think I'm a pretty big Leafs fan. And then there's just another level every other day. It's pretty cool to be a part of it.' Fan Eric Pronio carries the belt. supplied Leafs fans have loved the team's championship belt since players started handing it out in 2022. But because the Leafs didn't announce who got it after each win, fans had to dig. Reporters usually had to ask players directly. With no official record, fans built online trackers to follow the belt's journey — and when they couldn't find the answer, some messaged reporters for the inside scoop. Leafs Maple Leafs change lineup for Game 6 against Panthers, but double down on Matthews-Marner duo Pontus Holmberg and Calle Järnkrok are expected to return to the Leafs lineup while coach Craig Berube said he believes in his two struggling stars. Leafs Maple Leafs change lineup for Game 6 against Panthers, but double down on Matthews-Marner duo Pontus Holmberg and Calle Järnkrok are expected to return to the Leafs lineup while coach Craig Berube said he believes in his two struggling stars. As the belt's popularity grew, the team began posting the recipient on social media after each game to keep fans in the loop. And now, they've extended the tradition. So far this post-season, 12 fans have had the Passion Belt — one for each game played. The hand-off usually happens at the Maple Leaf Square tailgate outside Scotiabank Arena, though accommodations can be made for fans who want to stay anonymous. Each recipient chooses who to pass the belt to next, and is encouraged to pick someone based on positive social media content — ideally outside their immediate friend group. Fans Pronio and Abowat with the belt. supplied Bilal Abowat, who passed the belt to Pronio, says he's been a Leafs fan for at least two decades. He made sure to bask in the glory during his time holding the belt. As a wrestling fan, he brought it with him wherever he could. It even became a talking point at work. His mom was so intrigued, she posted it on Facebook. Before handing it off, he brought it to a pre-game dinner, where nearby diners were so impressed they tried it on for photos. Dubbed the 'Passion Belt' online, the Leafs introduced the replica championship strap for fans before the playoffs began. supplied 'It's a great initiative to really get fans involved,' he said. 'I have a ton of jerseys at home. I have a ton of merch from the Leafs, but a belt is something that's really cool and unique. I think it's really cool to mimic our favourite players on the team.' Elizabeth Malcolm, who lives in Ottawa, is the belt's current holder. She was shocked — but excited — when her friend asked if she'd accept it. Leafs Opinion Dave Feschuk: The good news for Game 6? The Leafs usually find a way to win when everybody gives up on them It wasn't a death blow, but the Maple Leafs' humiliating 6-1 loss to the Panthers on Wednesd… Her brother drove from Barrie to take her to the tailgate. At the Square, fans kept asking where she got it. One even showed her an eBay listing, thinking that's where it came from. (It's available from the online NHL shop for $905 before taxes.) 'There were a bunch of kids that were just reminding me why I like sports,' Malcolm said, who's driving back to the Square Friday night to pass on the belt. 'They were just there and still watching, hoping that the Leafs would do better while everyone else was, like, grumbling and leaving. So it was cute to have kids ask how I got it and where it's from. And when I say I got it from the team, they go, 'Wow! That's cool.' I'm like, 'Yeah, it is cool.' Elizabeth Malcolm drove from Ottawa to get the belt at Maple Leaf Square. supplied Joe Ferguson also held the belt during the opening round against the Senators. Since the belt was 'really heavy,' he usually wore it around his waist, taking photos with it at different Toronto landmarks and even while walking his dog. He said it was an honour to be recognized by another fan on social media for what he posts online. 'You get to kind of feel like you're an actual champion for a couple of days,' he said. Joe Ferguson also held the belt during the opening round against the Senators. Supplied Beyond this year, fans want to see the tradition continue for the next playoff run. But as the team faces elimination on Friday, down 3-2 in their best-of-seven series against the Florida Panthers, they hope it sticks around a little longer this year. What happens to the belt if they are eliminated? Fans will have to wait and see. 'Ultimately, I want to see it get passed around until the end of June,' Pronio said, 'when the boys lift the Cup.' Read more
Toronto Star
17-05-2025
- Sport
- Toronto Star
Maple Leafs vs. Panthers: Score remains 0-0 in second; Matthew Knies appears to be fighting an injury
After squandering a 2-0 series lead, the Maple Leafs are now on the brink of elimination in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Follow live commentary from the Star's Bruce Arthur throughout Game 6, plus fan reaction in Toronto. What to know: Score is 0-0 in the second period Leafs forward Matthew Knies has missed shifts as he appears in pain on the bench Toronto lost 6-1 in Game 5 at home on Wednesday Updated 1 min ago Leafs powerplay cut short after Matthews takes a penalty By Bruce Arthur Columnist Matthews returned for the power play, and you could feel a desperation from both teams during those two minutes: everyone knew what was on the line there, right until Auston Matthews took a high-sticking penalty behind the Florida net while trying to life Aaron Ekblad's stick. Brutal. Updated 13 sec ago Mood improving at Maple Leaf Square By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter Fans are seen during first period play at a packed Maple Leaf Square during Game 6. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star The crowd cheers and wave their towels in the air as Florida takes a penalty. Now they're singing, 'the good ol' hockey game, is the best game you can name...' Updated 5 mins ago Toronto handed a lifeline By Bruce Arthur Columnist Shot attempts in the period, if you can believe it, before that too-many-men penalty: Florida 25, Toronto 1. Basically, it felt like the Panthers had too many men, until they actually had too many men. Better make the power play count, Leafs. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 3 mins ago Matthews heads to the dressing room By Bruce Arthur Columnist Auston Matthews got a Barkov stick in the face off a faceoff and Matthews is either headed to the room to get stitched up, or for a concussion check. McMann-Domi-Marner is no way for a top line to go through life. Editorial note: The Leafs captain has since returned to play. Updated 1 min ago Florida gaining momentum in the second By Bruce Arthur Columnist Florida got 17 shot attempts in the second period before the Leafs got one, and then the beat went on. If you had just tuned in and there was no chyron you might assume Florida was trailing by two in the third period, and making a desperate push. But no matter what happens, Leafs fans will always have Simon Benoit absolutely blowing up Brad Marchand. Updated 12 mins ago Knies is on the ice for the second period, but not himself By Bruce Arthur Columnist Knies is not moving terribly well, but he's out there. Also out there: a Panthers team that seems a lot more comfortable, and a lot more determined. The first 15 shot attempts in the period have belonged to Florida. All of them, and counting. Toronto's shot blocking is critical right now. (Thank you, Natural Stat Trick.) Knies isn't going to last out there. Bobby McMann took a shift on the top line, and he's back out there with them now. Matthews and Marner's job just got tougher, and it was already plenty tough. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 13 mins ago Fan impressions from first intermission By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter A Toronto fan watches first-period action of Game 6 at Maple Leaf Square. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star Daniel Agozzino is sitting on the ground, and looks tired, but insists he's 'feeling good.' But he's not sure about the Leafs. 'The boys aren't really playing up to par on an elimination game. I feel like they could be doing better, but they're looking good.' Still, he's sad this could be the last time the Core Four play together. 'Mitch Marner might be gone soon… Auston Matthews better pick it up. I love him, I feel bad for him. I know he's going to pick it up. He's my favourite guy.' Evan Dantas takes a more optimistic tone. 'We're playing good so far, and hopefully we pull through. If we get to seven, we're taking the series… They seem a lot better than they were last game. We're playing physical, we're playing fast, we're not shying away. We're taking it to them, so if we keep the pressure on, if we keep outshooting them… we're going to win the game.' Updated 26 mins ago They're playing hockey, Harry. They're playing hockey By Bruce Arthur Columnist Leafs right wing Mitch Marner skates with the puck past Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling during the first period in Game 6. Lynne Sladky/AP The Panthers had one shot on goal in 16 minutes of 5-on-5, and only got four unblocked shot attempts through: Toronto outshot them 7-1, and out-attempted them 20-9. That is more or less the Leafs at their defensive best, and while Toronto didn't score, that is about as much as you could reasonable expect for a first period in Game 6. The two penalties were unwise, but the PK held up, and both the Matthews and the Tavares lines have been territorially dominant. The Knies injury could be a problem, and it could all chance with one goal, but that was promising. They're playing hockey, Harry. They're playing hockey. Updated 28 mins ago A quieter atmosphere at Maple Leaf Square following first period By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter Toronto fans at Maple Leaf Square watch first period play in Game 6 of the second round. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star The crowd's energy has died down a bit. People are looking more subdued — dare I say, unhappy? ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 44 mins ago Knies hurting on the bench By Bruce Arthur Columnist Matthew Knies looks like he is in significant pain after absorbing a reverse hit behind the Panthers bench. Not taking regular shifts. This looks like a problem you probably don't want in an elimination game. Updated 24 mins ago Toronto shows pep at the outset By Bruce Arthur Columnist Leafs centre Steven Lorentz goes for the puck against Panthers centre Anton Lundell during the first period in Game 6 in Sunrise, Fla. Lynne Sladky/AP This is the best sustained stretch the Leafs have produced in a few games; they are playing with alacrity, and Matthews in particular is doing work, and the Panthers are on their heels. Bobrovsky stops Knies after some pressure from the top line — Omar (@TicTacTOmar) May 17, 2025 But Florida has also produced two pretty decent chances going the other way. One thing about playing this team on the road is the Leafs have to play their asses off to give themselves a chance, but that's all it is: a chance. They've fulfilled that requirement, so far. Updated 54 mins ago Leafs starting strong, despite the penalties By Bruce Arthur Columnist Hell of a pass from Marner to Knies; Matthews shoves the Panthers around in their zone; suddenly the Leafs have life, and momentum. Other than the penalties, this has been a much better start than Game 5, and more of this would be helpful. Just play hockey like there's no tomorrow and you don't want to have regrets, guys. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 57 mins ago Toronto on the PK again By Bruce Arthur Columnist Max Domi is really leaning into his role as the guy who desperately takes away chances from the Florida Panthers at the last second, but OEL takes a second penalty, for tripping. Toronto hasn't given up a ton to the Panthers so far, so this is just undisciplined hockey. Updated 1 hr ago Leafs kill an early penalty By Bruce Arthur Columnist Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit tosses a toque to fans at the team's annual outdoor practice held at Prince of Wales rink in Mimico on January 27, 2025. Steve Russell/ Toronto Star At the end of a decent shift, Simon Benoit decides to play with fire: too physical, wrong decision. The Leafs really, really don't want to fall behind in an elimination game. The Leafs PK has been decent, at least, and kills the penalty, but I wouldn't recommend taking a lot of penalties in a game like this. Updated 1 hr ago Tavares loses an icing race By Bruce Arthur Columnist John Tavares tries, but is not the ideal candidate to try to beat the defence down the ice to negate an icing call. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 1 hr ago 'The Star-Spangled Banner' not a hit in Toronto By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter The crowd at Maple Leaf Square is booing the American national anthem. Updated 21 mins ago Ron MacLean, poet laureate of 'Hockey Night in Canada' By Bruce Arthur Columnist A file photo shows Ron MacLean, left, and Nick Kypreos going through their pregame ritual, figuring out what they will discuss during the 'Hockey Night in Canada' broadcast. Toronto Star file photo Ron MacLean remains the absolute strangest poet laureate hockey Canada could ever produce. The wordplay is tortured to the point of surrender, but the man is still popular with many folks. Updated 1 hr ago This fan believes in Toronto By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter 'After the last game (when) they got smoked 6-1. I think they're going to come out strong, and win,' says Sebastian Signorile, who is wearing a backwards Leafs cap at Maple Leaf Square. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 1 hr ago Proving everyone wrong is an immense motivator By Bruce Arthur Columnist Auston Matthews skates prior to the first period of a game against the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Jeffrey T. Barnes/AP One of the most common tropes in sports is the simplest: nobody believed in us. It's easy to motivate yourself when it feels like it's you against the world. Proving everyone wrong is immensely powerful, as a motivator: there are a lot of people whose parents withheld affection or approval whose drive to prove themselves lasts the rest of their lives. Well, this version of the Toronto Maple Leafs have become an absolutely apex version of this. The Leafs have tortured their fans in such an unfamiliar way in the past decade. Instead of missing the playoffs, which Toronto did all but once between 2005 and 2016 — and boy, that one playoff appearance was a memorable one, because I still remember that no other team had ever blown a three-goal lead in the third period of a Game 7 before — the Leafs have put together the longest consecutive playoffs streak since the fabled Leafs of 1967. They've just failed in increasingly spectacular ways in that time. And in this series, we saw both a team that seemed to have learned from its tortured past, and a team that seemed captured by it. And given how badly the Leafs were outplayed in both Game 4 and especially Game 5, the question might not be who believes in them. The fanbase, surely, is ready for pain. The hockey world can't reasonably expect the Leafs to win this game. We've seen too much. We've seen this team do this before. Maple Leafs have lost 10 consecutive series in which they faced elimination. Their last series win when facing elimination in the series came in the 2004 Conference Quarter-Finals when they defeated the Senators in Game 7. — Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) May 16, 2025 But the question of Game 6 might not be whether the rest of the world believes in the Leafs; it's whether the Leafs believe in themselves. That tentative second-guessing of Game 5 has to be replaced by trust and belief, and where will that come from? Who will be the source of that collective belief? The season isn't over, and this is a chance to beat the defending Stanley Cup champs to play the first Toronto Game 7 at home in this era, where there is a chance to reach the franchise's first conference final since 2002. It's still there. You just have to play. So let's see. Game 5 wasn't quite lost from the jump: the first 10 minutes were fine, and then things went a little sideways, and the Leafs never recovered. Adversity is a part of the deal, and if the Leafs overthink this, as head coach Craig Berube diagnosed, they're dead in the tracks. Game 6 might be the last stand of this era, with team president Brendan Shanahan and winger Mitch Marner in the final year of their contracts. This is the moment, and this is the chance, and no, nobody believes in the Leafs. Do they? Updated 1 hr ago Cautious optimism at Maple Leaf Square By Marisa Coulton Staff Reporter Fans packed Maple Leaf Square ahead of Game 6 between the Leafs and Panthers on Friday, May 16. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star A massive crowd of fans dressed in white and blue cluster together in Maple Leaf Square outside Scotiabank Arena, waiting for the puck drop at 8pm. They shout, wave towels, shake noisemakers. They're grinning, excited. Among them is Josh Wulff, whose collection of Leafs memorabilia has reached 'not even funny' levels. He's cautiously optimistic about tonight's game, saying a Toronto win 'would mean the world to him.' 'I'm pretty excited about it, hoping that they can bring it back to Toronto,' Wulff says. 'We need to see a conference final, at least at some point. This is the year, if anything. Let's bring it back to Toronto and let's go take out the Hurricanes.' One fan takes a quiet moment before the start of Game 6. Richard Lautens/ Toronto Star He's feeling as optimistic as he can be, he says, given that the Leafs are going against the cup champs. 'It's the playoffs,' Wulff says. 'If you don't come to play, you're not going to win. Let's hope the boys bring it tonight, and let's bring the cup home.' Meanwhile, fellow fan Nathan Woodfine says he's nervous. 'I'm praying that they make this one. It's my first time at the tailgate. This will be a blast. I'm excited.' He's watched all the games so far. 'I want game seven.' Updated 5 hrs ago Passing on the 'passion': How Leafs fans buckled up for this playoff run by taking on a wrestling-inspired tradition By Ilyas Hussein Staff Reporter Joe Ferguson also held the belt during the opening round against the Senators. Supplied It started with the team. After every win, a Maple Leafs player would hoist a WWE-style belt, passed from one to the next. It was a symbol of grit. A sign of effort. A badge of honour. But this playoff run, the tradition has spilled into the stands. Dubbed the 'Passion Belt' online, the Leafs introduced the replica championship strap for fans before the playoffs began. Fans across the city — and beyond — have been passing it from one superfan to another after every game, win or lose, celebrating team spirit and forming a unique connection with the club. Read the full report from the Star's Ilyas Hussein ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 2 hrs ago Even after a trying season, Maple Leafs defenceman Jani Hakanpää has plenty to smile about By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter If there's one thing that stands out about Jani Hakanpää, the Maple Leafs' always-injured free agent signing, it's the ever-present smile on his face. The big Finnish defender is staring down the inevitable: The end of his NHL career. So he's doing what he can to enjoy what remains of it. He's practising with the Maple Leafs extras and has sat in the press box as a Black Ace through the playoffs. 'It's just it's nice to be out with the boys,' Hakanpää said in a recent interview. 'You get a little extra pep in your step when you're playing around with the fellas.' Read the full story from Kevin McGran here Updated 2 hrs ago Maple Leafs change lineup for Game 6 against Panthers, but double down on Matthews-Marner duo By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—What's old is new again as Pontus Holmberg and Calle Järnkrok are expected to return to the Maple Leafs lineup for tonight's Game 6 against the Florida Panthers after being scratched Game 5. 'We've played good hockey with the lineup we have tonight,' said Leafs coach Craig Berube. Nick Robertson and David Kämpf, who got into Game 5, will be scratched. The lines at the morning skate had a familiar feel. Berube said he thought about breaking up his two biggest stars — Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner — but had them together on a line with Matthew Knies. 'These guys have been a combo for a long time and they've had a lot of success,' said Berube. 'So I trust them. I believe in them.' Read the full story from Kevin McGran here Updated 2 hrs ago Opinion: The good news for Game 6? The Leafs usually find a way to win when everybody gives up on them By Dave Feschuk Sports Columnist Toronto Maple Leafs fans watch the final minutes of the game as the Toronto Maple Leafs fall to the Florida Panthers 6-1 in game five in the second round of the NHL Stanley Cup play-offs at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. May 14, 2025. Steve Russell Toronto Star It wasn't a death blow, but the Maple Leafs' humiliating 6-1 loss to the Panthers on Wednesday certainly left another Toronto hockey season wheezing on its death bed, and the Shanaplan era on life support. But if there's a reason for the Leafs to believe in the plausibility of a miraculous recovery — they are down 3-2 to the defending Stanley Cup champions from South Florida — it's probably written in their recent history. We're not talking about the history of playing so poorly in important playoff games that they get booed off the ice in their own building. We're referring to the history of what's sometimes followed such low moments, of which there have been a few. We've seen this happen before: When all of Leafs Nation is partaking in their social-media desecration, the Leafs have historically found a supply of on-ice desperation. When all appears lost, the Leafs have defied expectations and won — never a series, mind you, but at least a game or two. Read the full column from Dave Feschuk here ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Updated 2 hrs ago Opinion: I used to love watching Leafs games in Florida. But after a dark turn at the Panthers' arena, I don't think I can go back By Stephen Grant Contributor Stephen Grant's view of Joseph Woll in net for the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Toronto-Florida playoff game earlier this week in Sunrise, Fla. Stephen Grant photo 'Hey, welcome back. Are you the 51st state, yet?' My feet hadn't even touched the ground of my driveway. That was the greeting I received from a neighbour on Day 1 of my annual trip to Florida. Game four of the second round and I was determined to fly the Leafs colours and drive the two-hour, mind-numbing, high-speed straightway to Sunrise, Fla., on a highway appropriately named Alligator Alley. I arrived at Amerant Bank Arena to find a sea of Florida Panther red jerseys and the atmosphere on the walk from my car to the arena was great; there was no trash talk because I assumed they're used to seeing Leaf fans at their home games. This game was no different. Or was it? I was wearing my Leafs jersey (of course) as I settled in to my seat behind the Florida net for the first period, just eight rows from the ice — but I wasn't in Kansas anymore, or Scotiabank Arena for that matter. Read the full column from Stephen Grant here Updated 13 hrs ago The Leafs believe 'they're right in the fight' — but does their coach agree? By Kevin McGran Sports Reporter Their fans might have given up on them. Their critics are ready to say, 'I told you so.' And some of the Maple Leafs might be secretly thinking, 'Not again.' But Toronto's hockey heroes, who have seen a 2-0 series advantage turn into a 3-2 deficit, are saying the right things, at least outwardly. 'Whether we lost the way we lost (by five goals) or we lost in overtime, whatever it is, we're still in a position where we're right in the fight,' defenceman Morgan Rielly said as the team gathered at the Ford Performance Centre before jetting to Florida for Friday's Game 6. 'We've got to go down there, we've got to play our best game. Read the full piece from Leafs beat reporter Kevin McGran 16 hrs ago Opinion: Leafs set new high-water mark for failure in Game 5 By Bruce Arthur Columnist Leafs forwards Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner and Matthew Knies, left to right, during the third period of Game 5 on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Nathan Denette/ The Canadian Press The core question for the Maple Leafs — or the question about the core — has always been simple. Does scar tissue make you tougher, or leave you weak? Over and over, Leafs president Brendan Shanahan and the organization believed their best players would use the fuel of disappointment to reach new heights. They believed the context around the core could be adjusted — coaches, goalies, defence pairings, depth forwards — but at the heart of it they hoped for great players who were steely, hungry, and mature, and could rise up under the pressure. That was the hope. It hasn't happened. It keeps not happening. Toronto has a free-refill buffet of playoff failure to choose from, but their 6-1 loss to Florida in Game 5 was probably the worst big-game performance this team has ever delivered, if you had to choose. It didn't end the series, but it put the franchise on the edge, in more ways than one. You can see the end of an era from here. '(The Panthers) were fast, they were honest, they were hungrier,' Leafs coach Craig Berube said Wednesday night, in the immediate aftermath. 'I don't think they came any harder than they have, to be honest with you. I think we let 'em come tonight. I mean, we stood around and watched. You can't do that.' ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW 16 hrs ago Maple Leafs post-Game 5 notebook By Hayden Godfrey Staff Reporter Inside the cavernous confines of the Ford Performance Centre on a cloudless Thursday morning, the few Maple Leafs players and personnel in the building were left to pick up the pieces of a crushing 6-1 loss to the Florida Panthers and adjust to the reality of having their backs against the wall for the first time this NHL post-season. Head coach Craig Berube was blunt in his assessment of what went wrong in Game 5 of their best-of-seven series Wednesday night that put his team in a 3-2 hole: The Leafs were constantly overthinking their play. 'We didn't move our feet, we didn't compete. We were tentative in the game, you can't play like that,' Berube said. 'We'll be a lot better in Game 6.' Read the full story from the Star's Hayden Godfrey
