
Key 2: Defence Needs to Keep up the Strong Play
Are we shocked that the Maple Leafs defense isn’t the team’s biggest issue for once?
It’s like they’ve been possessed with defensive powers all of a sudden. Ron Hainsey has stepped up, including in his physicality. He’s playing the greatest hockey of his tenure with the Leafs and it couldn’t have come at a better time. He’s making great plays and has complimented Morgan Rielly excellently as of late.
Nikita Zaitsev has also been excellent, especially when he hasn’t been that great in recent memory. I haven’t have many complaints with him and it’s a real breath of fresh air.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have also been dominantly physical for once. They’ve outhit Boston 177-172. This is the most physical play we’ve seen from them and it couldn’t have come against a better team. Going up against the traditionally physical Bruins, being able to dominate in their specialty area is crucial to keep up.
Concerns about how the Leafs would matchup physically with Boston have been alleviated i’d think. Toronto has officially outhit the B’s 177-172. The 2 teams are ranked 5th and 6th amongst all NHL teams. The Leafs were 29th in hit totals during the regular season. #Leafsforever
— Paul Hendrick (@HennyTweets) April 20, 2019
Finally, I can’t forget to mention Jake Muzzin, who arguably played his best game as a Leaf so far on the backs of his new-born daughter.
How Muzzin played 22+ minutes that well after the birth of his daughter yesterday and flying in late last night is mind-boggling. Flight was delayed and he hardly slept at all. Congrats to their family.
— James Mirtle (@mirtle) April 20, 2019
Seriously though, the acquisition of Muzzin cannot be overlooked. He’s bringing the leadership, physicality and defensive plays that’s helping the Leafs come out on top. Not to mention that excellent pass to Matthews to get on the board.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are finding great defense from their entire blue line and that needs to stay consistent in game six if they want to advance to the second round.