The Toronto Maple Leafs came out flying in their return from the two-week 4 Nations Face-Off break, using a dominant four-goal first period to set the tone in a 6-3 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night at Scotiabank Arena.
Toronto wasted no time finding their legs while they caught the Hurricanes flat-footed.
Alex Steeves recorded his first career NHL goal to open the scoring 2:50 into the frame before Pontus Holmberg, David Kampf, and John Tavares would extend the lead to a commanding 4-0 score.
“Yeah, I just really liked our start. Skated really well, especially off the puck. And allowed us to cause some pressure, create some opportunities, and build a really good lead,” said Tavares post-game.
However, after a scoreless second period, the game took a turn midway in the third as the Hurricanes gave the Leafs a run for their money. Carolina struck three times, scoring all three goals within three minutes with under five minutes remaining, cutting Toronto’s lead to 4-3.
With momentum shifting, the Leafs found themselves on their heels but managed to weather the storm as Auston Matthews and Holmberg each added empty net tallies to earn a 6-3 victory.
“They pushed back pretty well. And obviously, we’ve got to do a lot better job taking care of the game in the third. But in a good spot throughout the night. So a lot of good things, but certainly a lot better. Coming off the break, really good to get these two points, especially before a long trip here,” said Tavares.
“The way we just kind of battled back and it didn’t really fold under the pressure and we were able to close it out. It’s a huge two points for us,” added goaltender Anthony Stolarz.
Head coach Craig Berube acknowledged the team’s struggles in the final frame, emphasizing the need for a more aggressive approach to protecting the lead against a strong offensive-minded team.
“I thought we probably backed up a little bit too much in the third and let them come at us. And then we get the 4-on-4 situation, they pull their goalie. So, you know, they made it interesting. They’re good at that. I’ve seen them do it numerous times,” said Berube.
“They’re going to come out of the score. And they put pressure on them. So I think in the third, I’d like to see our team a little bit more aggressive up ice and not backing in so much and letting them come at us,” he added.
Despite the late push from the Hurricanes, the Leafs held their composure, something they’ve grown accustomed to throughout the season – winning close games. It may not have been a complete 60-minute performance, but forward Steven Lorentz explained that the team was “happy” with the effort on Saturday night and the team was “itching” to return to game action.
“I think guys were just itching to get back to it. It’s nice to have a little break in the middle of the season like that just to kind of refresh your mind, but I think it was just long enough that guys were kind of excited and itching to get back,” said Lorentz.
“We’re happy with our effort tonight. We gave up a few at the end there and some unlucky bounces, but it was a good win. We’ll take that right after the break, after 10 days off. So we’re happy with it, and we just got to get right back to it tomorrow,” he added.
The victory marked Toronto’s fourth win in their last five games, dating back to February 1 in Edmonton. The Leafs now turn their attention to a quick turnaround as they face the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday to kick off a four-game road trip.
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