Travis Dermott Succeeds In New Opportunity with Toronto Maple Leafs

There have been a lot of takeaways from how the Toronto Maple Leafs have played in their last two games down in the sunshine state.

With two-straight wins on the road in Florida, the Toronto Maple Leafs look to push away from the Panthers for third in the Atlantic division. (Note: This article was written prior to last night’s game).

Their game against Florida was hands down their best performance of the year. Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Kasperi Kapanen and Zach Hyman all contributing majorly for the win.

However, there are a few players who stumbled under the radar after Thursday night’s 5-3 performance against the Panthers.

Along with all the Toronto Maple Leafs’ stars showing up to both games, one player in particular had some big shoes to fill after their win against the Lightning.

Travis Dermott.

Not only did he have to move up in the lineup, but he has to take on the role of being essentially, Jake Muzzin.

And after one game, he’s flourished in the opportunity.

Paired alongside Justin Holl, the two former Marlies defenseman played incredible — not allowing a goal against in the entire game.

Being the shutdown pairing for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Holl and Dermott both succeeded in their role.

“[Hollsy] and I love these situations,” said Dermott (via MapleLeafs.com), “it’s felt pretty good being able to capitalize on them.”

The role that Dermott needed to start the season is now upon him.

With three key defenseman out for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dermott finally gets the chance to show what kind of player he really is. Playing in key situations against tough opponents, late in games, the 23-year-old is thankful for the task that’s ahead of him.

“Being out there in such high opportunity chances for them [Florida], where it’s really coming down to the line, last minute or important power plays for them, it’s definitely nice to get these opportunities,” said Dermott.

He’s has been there before though. The 23-year-old was a vital part of the Toronto Marlies Calder Cup winning team back in 2018.

With what we’re noticing from Kapanen, and now Dermott, they’re finally noiticing how important these final 20 games are, and the two are stepping up.

“Playing third [defensive] pairing in the NHL is no easy task,” said Dermott, “you just try to do the best of everything you’re given, and then once these situations arise, you can’t be waiting for them, but you gotta definitely take the bull by the horns.”

That’s what he did against the Florida Panthers, and it’s what he hopes to do with the rest of this opportunity.

It looks like some of the toughest moments of the season are behind the Toronto Maple Leafs, but then again, they might not be.

But Dermott hopes that all he can do is play well in whatever role he’s given on a nightly basis. And just maybe, do something he did with the Marlies two years ago.