Toronto Maple Leafs: Three Takeaways From Loss To Sharks

Dec 13, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Mitch Marner (16) and San Jose Sharks right wing Kevin Labanc (62) fall as they go after the puck at Air Canada Centre. The Sharks beat the Maple Leafs 3-2 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 13, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Zach Hyman (11) is stopped on a breakaway by San Jose Sharks goalie Martin Jones (31) at Air Canada Centre. The Sharks beat the Maple Leafs 3-2 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Hyman shows his toughness

It’s no secret that Mike Babcock gushes over the work ethic and toughness that Hyman brings to the team. His motor and ability to head into the dirty areas are reasons as for why he plays with Matthews and Nylander.

Furthermore, his toughness would shine versus the Sharks. During the first period Hyman went down to block a shot from Brent Burns, but it resulted in him taking a slap shot off his leg which leads to him exiting the game.

However, that minor injury did not keep Hyman out too long. After exiting for a few minutes, he returned and subsequently did his very best Paul Kariya impersonation as his redirection opened up the scoring for the Maple Leafs.

The two period showed the warrior status of Hyman. From having to key blocked shots, a goal, and coming close to scoring a short-handed goal. Also, it should be noted that continues to make up for his skill deficiencies with hard work and grit.

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