The Toronto Maple Leafs are still alive, and so is Auston Matthews. They successfully forced a decisive Game 7 back in Toronto by defeating the Florida Panthers 2-0 in Game 6 on the road.
Heading into Friday night`s crucial elimination game, Matthews had yet to score in the series. He faced considerable pressure as the Maple Leafs` initial 2-0 series lead had vanished, putting them in a 3-2 deficit. Matthews delivered a performance worthy of the moment.
The scoreless deadlock was finally broken 6:20 into the third period. Matthews drove into the offensive zone on a rush and unleashed a powerful, accurate shot that beat Sergei Bobrovsky. This was Matthews` first goal of the series and arguably the most important one, coming at a critical time for Toronto.
Later in the final frame, veteran forward Max Pacioretty extended Toronto`s advantage with his third goal of the postseason. Pacioretty skillfully finished a superb pass from Bobby McMann while aggressively driving towards the net.
A major storyline for the Leafs` victory was the play of goaltender Joseph Woll. He bounced back emphatically from a challenging Game 5 outing where he allowed five goals on just 25 shots. In Game 6, Woll was perfect, stopping all 22 shots directed his way to earn a shutout victory.
With another tense night of the NHL playoffs completed, let`s highlight the top performers with our 3 Stars of the Night.
3 Stars of the Night
3. Max Pacioretty | LW | Maple Leafs
After looking like a player in the twilight of his career recently, Pacioretty has turned back the clock during these playoffs. He scored a crucial insurance goal late in Game 6, finishing a perfect feed from McMann at the net front. This goal provided much-needed breathing room and showcased the vital contribution of Toronto`s supporting cast.
2. Joseph Woll | G | Maple Leafs
Woll`s Game 5 performance was difficult, prompting questions about his readiness for Game 6. However, he delivered a flawless shutout. While the defense helped by limiting high-danger chances, Woll stopped everything that got through, saving 1.11 goals above average and denying all seven rebound attempts by Florida. His ability to carry this form into Game 7 will be paramount.
1. Auston Matthews | C | Maple Leafs
Was anyone under more intense scrutiny than the Leafs` captain? Matthews finally broke through, scoring the game-winning goal in the must-win Game 6 after being held scoreless in the previous five games. Florida had successfully contained him until he found a sliver of space on the rush in the third period. His signature quick release caught Bobrovsky by surprise, giving Toronto the lead and seemingly lifting an enormous weight. His performance in Game 7 is highly anticipated.
