Predicting the Toronto Maple Leafs Path Through the Qualifying Round

Game 2

John Tortorella will not let his Blue Jackets be embarrassed. They’ll come out far more prepared for Toronto’s onslaught and force themselves into a position to more easily reciprocate.

The Maple Leafs will stick to their gameplan of quick breakouts and constant scoring attempts, it just won’t be as effective as it was in Game 1. After adjusting their approach, Columbus will generate a more successful shutdown.

In turn, the Blue Jackets will give themselves greater opportunity to make their chances count and earn the timely goals they failed to score in the first meeting.

Some offensive sparks will still fly throughout this game for Toronto, as Matthews will continue his tear, but their defense fails this initial test.

Morgan Rielly and Jake Muzzin will lead the team in ice time, putting forth solid efforts and doing their part. Unfortunately, a less experienced Travis Dermott will have a game he’d like to forget.

It won’t be on Andersen, who will put in a quality night’s work and avoid getting pulled.

Frustration and missed chances will be the storyline for the Maple Leafs, with Columbus winning this one 4-2.