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Category: Toronto Maple Leafs

  • Columbus Blue Jackets @ Toronto Maple Leafs – 11/19/2018 – Game Day Preview & Game Recap

    Columbus Blue Jackets @ Toronto Maple Leafs – 11/19/2018 – Game Day Preview & Game Recap

    Time: Monday, Novemeber 19th, 2018

    Toronto: 14-5-0 for 28 points

    Columbus: 12-6-2 for 16 points

    The Toronto Maple Leafs head back home and look to keep their winning ways going against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both teams have won 3 in row coming into tonight and only one will leave winning 4 games in a row.

    Top Scorers/Goalie Matchup

    Mitch Marner – 26 points (6 goals 20 assists)

    Morgan Rielly – 25 points (9 goals 16 assists)

    John Tavares – 23 points (12 goals 11 assists) 48% on face-offs

    Auston Matthews – 16 points (10 goals 6 assists) 53% on Face-off

     

    Artemi Panarin –21 points (5 goals 16 assists)

    Cam Atkinson– 20 points (12 goal 8 assists)

    Pierre-Luc Dubois – 17 points (9 goal 8 assists)

    Zach Werenski– 13 points (3 goal 9 assists)

    Frederik Andersen

    11-5-0 2.08GAA .934SV%

    Sergei Bobrovsky

    7-6-1 2.60GAA .917SV%

     

    Probable Lineups:

    Toronto:

    Mitch Marner – John Tavares – Zach Hyman

    Kasperi Kapanen – Nazem Kadri– Patrick Marleau

    Tyler Ennis – Pars Lindholm – Connor Brown

    Andreas Johnsson – Frederik Gauthier – Josh Leivo

    Morgan Rielly – Ron Hainsey

    Jake Gardiner – Nikita Zaitsev

    Travis Dermott – Igor Ozhiganov

    Frederik Andersen

    Garrett Sparks
    Scratched: Justin Holl & Martin Marincin

    Injuries: Nathan Horton (Back), Auston Matthews (Shoulder)

    Suspension: None

     

    Columbus:

    Artemi Panarin– Pierre-Luc Dubois – Cam Atkinson

    Nick Foligno– Boone Jenner– Josh Anderson

    Brandon Dubinsky– Alexander Wennberg– Anthony Duclair

    Lukas Sedlak – Riley Nash – Markus Hannikainen

    Ryan Murray – Seth Jones

    Markus Nutivaara– David Savard

    Zach Werenski– Scott Harrington

    Sergei Bobrovsky

    Joonas Korpisalo
    Scratched: None

    Injuries: None

    Suspension: None

    Keys to Winning against Columbus:

    1. Speed Speed Speed
      1. Attack fast and hard, consistently using speed through the all zones.
    2. Traffic in front of Bobrovsky
      1. Good goalies make unbelieveable saves Bobrovsky is one of those. Need bodies in front of him.
    3. Score 1st
      1. Leafs have had their struggles at home and need to get off to a good start. 1st goal of the game would easily help that.

    Game Day Lineups:

    First Period:

    Columbus Goal – 14:39 – Cam Atkinson (13) assisted by Pierre-Luc Dubois (9)

    Columbus Goal – 19:10 – Pierre-Luc Dubois (10) assisted by Cam Atkinson (9) and Artemi Panarin (17)

    End of 1st – CBJ – 0     TOR – 1

    Shots              14                06

    Faceoffs         10/16          6/16

    Hits               10                  4

    PP                 0/0              0/0

     

    Analysis:

    Terrible period for the Leafs. They looked un-engaged and not ready to play.

    Need to Do:

    Get the speed going, play in the offensive zone more or this game is going to get out of hand.

    Second Period:

    Toronto Goal – 13:01 – Tyler Ennis (3) from Frederik Gauthier (2) and Ron Hainsey (7)

    Toronto Goal – 17:20 – John Tavares (13) from Mitch Marner (21) and Kasperi Kapanen (7)

    End of 2nd –CBJ – 2      TOR – 2

    Shots               25                     17

    Faceoffs          10/30            20/30

    Hits                 8                      6

    PP                   0/0                  0/0

     

    Analysis:

    Leafs look like they got their game back this period. A lot more aggression and pace to their game. Taking more shots and spending more time in the offensive zone.

    Need to Do:

    Keep being aggressive and attacking the defence of Columbus.

    Third Period:

    Toronto Goal – 15:38 – Zach Hyman (2) from Morgan Rielly (17) and John Tavares (12)

    Toronto EN Goal – 18:59 – Zach Hyman (3) from Mitch Marner (22) and Ron Hainsey (8)

    End of 3rd –CBJ – 2           TOR – 4

    Shots              39                      26

    Faceoffs        27/65             38/65

    Hits               24                      17

    PP                 0/0                    0/0

    Analysis:

    Zach Hyman came to work hard tonight, Mitch Marner and John Tavares added 2 points and the Leafs won 15 of 21 games for the first time since 1933-1934.

    Next Up:

    Toronto (15-6-0 30pts) @ Carolina (9-8-3 21pts)

    Toronto (15-6-0 30pts) @ Columbus (12-7-2 26pts)

     

    You can watch TXHT Live this Wednesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

     

  • William Nylander Rumors Swirling

    William Nylander Rumors Swirling

    Training Camp, Pre-Season and 19 games into the regular season and here we still sit awaiting any movement from the Leafs only contract holdout this season William Nylander. For a while now we’ve heard GM Kyle Dubas state he is not trading Nylander and they will come to terms on an agreement. But as the deadline looms rumors have squeeked through the cracks and it appears Dubas is still looking to sign Nylander but now has accepted that the young forward might either sit out or they can trade him for some value.

     

    It was reported on November 10th by Elliot Friedman that the Leafs have indicated that Nylander is available and have asked teams to put forward what is available and what is not.

    https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1061442109868134400

     

    With that being said I want to give everyone an idea of what the packages are that have been floating around recently for Nylander.

    I’ve heard 4 teams are in hard for Nylander. 2 of the 4 teams are basically all hands on deck for Nylander.

    The 4 teams are Carolina, St.Louis, Los Angeles, and Anaheim

    The 2 teams that are all in are Carolina and St.Louis

    I’ve heard as many as 7 other teams have kicked tires, a few of those being New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, and Philadelphia Flyers. But it appears the asking price is too much for these teams. The Leafs seem to be wanting a top 4 defender and a top 9 winger. I will tell you some of the deals flying around out their and do my best to explain what the Leafs will be getting in return.

     

    Offer #1 – Anaheim and Toronto

    To Anaheim: William Nylander

    To Toronto: Brandon Montour and Nick Ritchie

    Montour is a 2nd round pick of the Anaheim Ducks who stepped onto their defence and has made significant contributions. Montour’s style of play is most likely compared to Tyson Barrie, which shouldn’t be very interesting for Toronto. Barrie is a turnover machine who gets caught out of position all the time. But Montour’s offensive upside is huge, he’s a great skater and has great vision. Nick Ritchie doesn’t really make much sense for Toronto, he hasn’t shown much offensive upside since coming to the NHL and seems like more of a player built for the truculence era. To me this deal doesn’t make much sense. The Leafs don’t need grit they are a speed/skill team and Montour is a younger version of Jake Gardiner.

     

    Offer #2 – Los Angeles and Toronto

    To LA: William Nylander

    To Toronto: Jake Muzzin, Adrian Kempe and a draft pick.

    Jake Muzzin is your prototype 2way defencemen, good wrister, good passer and pretty hard nosed in the defensive zone. He will block shots and has a good stick. Kind of the defender the Leafs are looking for. One problem exists Muzzin is 32 and I’m pretty sure the Leafs would rather keep the defencemen they get young. Kempe is an intriguing piece, he has some serious upside but has yet to show a lot in his short time. But this could be possible to the structure that the Kings have played. Once again not a fan of this deal for the reason of the age of Muzzin.

     

    Offer #3 – Toronto and St. Louis

    To St.Louis: William Nylander & Martin Marincin

    To Toronto: Colton Parayko & Nikita Soshnikov

    This deal feels like it’s NHL 19 and I want to smash the accept button. Colton Parayko is everything the Leafs could want in a defender and more. Great shot, blocks shots, hits, great first pass, right handed shot and he’s 6’6 and only 26. Getting rid of Marincin and getting Soshnikov back would only add to this deal. Love this deal for Toronto and is my 2nd favorite offer.

     

    Offer #4 – Toronto and Carolina

    To Carolina: Williams Nylander

    To Toronto: Brett Pesce, Teuvo Teravainen and a 1st round pick

    This deal is jaw dropping. Brett Pesce is considered by most scouts, and analysts to be an elite shutdown defender, who can skate and put some points on the board. Pesce is 6’3 and willing to do everything including block shots from Zdeno Chara. Teravainen offers some more scoring in the bottom 6 with potential to move up to the top 6 and the 1st round pick could be anything. This is my favorite deal as I am a huge fan of Pesce.

    But that’s all the information I got on the situation. If you have heard anything else be sure to hit me up in the comments or on twitter @gardskie.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live this Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 17th, 2018 — News and Notes

    November 17th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Saturday, November 17th, 2018, and these are your news and notes…

     

    There were six contests in action yesterday.

     

     

    DALLAS 1, Boston 0 (OT)

     

    Dallas Stars G Ben Bishop became the fifth player in franchise history to record a shutout over the Boston Bruins.

     

    Buffalo 2, WINNIPEG 1 (SO)

     

    Buffalo Sabres Jeff Skinner scored in the contest, his eighth goal since November 1st, to give the Sabres the shootout win over the Winnipeg Jets last night.

     

    Los Angeles 2, CHICAGO 1 (SO)

     

    Los Angeles G Calvin Petersen registered 34 saves in the contest and would turn aside two shots in the shootout give Petersen his first NHL win in the Kings contest over the Chicago Blackhawks.

     

    Washington 3, COLORADO 2 (OT)

     

    Alex Ovechkin has 681 goals (regular-season and playoffs combined) to tie Dino Ciccarelli for 17th place all-time.

     

    Nicklas Backstrom scored the game-winner just 22 seconds into the overtime to give the Washington Capitals the 3-2 win in Denver last night.

     

    Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Washington Capitals v. Colorado Avalanche

     

    St. Louis 4, VEGAS 1

     

    St. Louis Blues Ryan O’Reilly has at least one point in 11 out of the last 12 games and leads the Blues with 23 points on the season.  O’Reilly also scored two goals in the contest.

     

    Toronto 2, ANAHEIM 1 (OT)

     

    For the second time in franchise history, the Toronto Maple Leafs ended up sweeping the California road-trip in the Maple Leafs overtime win over the Anaheim Ducks.

    Patrick Marleau scored his 539th career goal, passing Keith Tkachuk for 32nd place on the all-time list.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor Steve Gardiner has your recap of the game at the following page.

    Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. Anaheim Ducks

     

    Today there are 11 games on the docket…

     

    There are two options for this week’s NHL European Game of the Week today.

    For more news, notes, info, and stats…

    In NHL news…

     

    -Arizona Coyotes F Josh Archibald was suspended for two games for his illegal check to the head of Nashville Predators F Ryan Hartman in Thursday night’s contest by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety yesterday evening.

     

    In the NWHL…

    The NWHL returns to action TODAY.

    This weekend’s schedule of NWHL games…

    This week’s NWHL Twitter Game of the Week is Sunday and pits the Metropolitan Riveters against the Connecticut Whale.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live next Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. Anaheim Ducks

    Game Recap – 11/16/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. Anaheim Ducks

    Time: Friday, Novemeber 16th , 2018

    Toronto: 13-6-0 for 26 points

    Anaheim: 8-9-3 for 19 points

    The Toronto Maple Leafs come to Anaheim on a high. Going 2 for 2 against their western conference opponents so far. Anaheim is their final test and if they pass they will be crowned number 1 overall in the NHL.

    Top Scorers/Goalie Matchup

    Mitch Marner – 25 points (6 goals 19 assists)

    Morgan Rielly – 24 points (8 goals 16 assists)

    John Tavares – 23 points (12 goals 11 assists) 49% on face-offs

    Auston Matthews – 16 points (10 goals 6 assists) 53% on Face-off

     

    Rickard Rakell –13 points (3 goals 10 assists)

    Ryan Getzlaf– 12 points (4 goal 8 assists)

    Jakub Silfverberg– 10 points (5 goal 5 assists)

    Cam Fowler– 10 points (3 goal 7 assists)

    Frederik Andersen

    11-5-0 2.08GAA .934SV%

    John Gibson

    6-7-3 2.59GAA .927SV%

    Probable Lineups:

    Toronto:

    Kasperi Kapanen – John Tavares – Zach Hyman

    Mitch Marner – Nazem Kadri– Patrick Marleau

    Tyler Ennis – Pars Lindholm – Connor Brown

    Andreas Johnsson – Frederik Gauthier – Josh Leivo

    Morgan Rielly – Ron Hainsey

    Jake Gardiner – Nikita Zaitsev

    Travis Dermott – Igor Ozhiganov

    Garrett Sparks

    Frederik Andersen
    Scratched: Justin Holl & Martin Marincin

    Injuries: Nathan Horton (Back), Auston Matthews (Shoulder)

    Suspension: None

     

    San Jose:

    Rickard Rakell – Ryan Getzlaf– Pontus Aberg

    Andrew Cogliano – Ryan Kesler– Jakub Silfverberg

    Nick Ritchie– Adam Henrique – Ondrej Kase

    Brian Gibbons – Kalle Kassila – Keifer Sherwood

    Hampus Lindholm –Branden Montour

    Jacob Larsson – Josh Manson

    Marcus Petterson – Andy Welenski

    John Gibson

    Ryan Miller
    Scratched:

    Injuries: Corey Perry (Knee), Carter Rowney (Undisclosed), Maxime Comtois (Undisclosed), Came Fowler (Facial), Kevin Bieksa (Hand)

    Suspension: None

    Keys to Winning against Anaheim:

    1. Aggressive on the Anaheim Defence
      1. Young inexperienced and prone to make mistakes or give the puck away. Be fast and aggressive on the forecheck.
    2. Traffic in Front of Gibson
      1. Gibson has shown he’s the real deal and needs to have some pressure put in front of him. If he sees the puck he will stop it.
    3. Powerplay
      1. One of the best on the road against one of the better PK’s. Need to get some good reps against this team.

    Game Day Lineups:

    First Period:

    Toronto Goal – 5:42 – Patrick Marleau (4) from Jake Gardiner (9) and Nazem Kadri(7)

    End of 1st – TOR – 1       ANA – 0

    Shots              9                 12

    Faceoffs         10/18          8/18

    Hits               5                  4

    PP                 0/0              0/0

    Analysis:

    Leafs looked like they didn’t play last night. They had fresh legs and a jump in their game, which is what exactly what led to the first goal of the game by Patrick Marleau.

    Need to Do:

    Continue to play with urgency and continue to press the young defence of Anaheim.

    Second Period:

    Anaheim Penalty – 03:41 – Andy Welinski 2 minutes for Hooking

    Anaheim Penalty – 12:28 – Josh Manson 2 minutes for Holding

    Anaheim Goal – 18:35 – Pontus Aberg (6) from Nick Ritchie (2) and Adam Henrique (5)

    End of 2nd – TOR – 1        ANA – 1

    Shots               21                  22

    Faceoffs          20/38            18/38

    Hits                 7                       10

    PP                   0/2                  0/0

    Analysis:

    Leafs had many chances to put the game away, including 2 powerplays and couldn’t do it. Aberg scored to add insult to injury at the end of the period

    Need to Do:

    Kick the offence back into gear and attack

    Third Period:

    Toronto Penalty – 13:53 – Kasperi Kapanen 2 minutes for Delay of Game

    End of 3rd – TOR – 1         ANA – 1

    Shots              31                   37

    Faceoffs        27/57             30/57

    Hits               11                    14

    PP                 0/2                  0/1

     Analysis:

    Chances at both ends but nothing goes. Overtime we go

    OT:

    Toronto Goal – 03:17 – Morgan Rielly (9) assisted by Mitch Marner (20)

    End of OT – TOR – 2         ANA – 1

    Shots              35                   39

    Faceoffs        29/61             32/61

    Hits               11                    16

    PP                 0/2                  0/1

     Analysis:

    Leafs took over the OT and Morgan Rielly netted his 9th of the season with Mitch Marner on the beautiful pass.

    Next Up:

    Columbus (11-6-2 24pts) @ Toronto (14-6-0 28pts)

    Colorado (9-6-4 22pts) @ Anaheim (8-9-4 20pts)

     

    You can watch TXHT Live this Wednesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

     

  • Game Recap – 11/15/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. San Jose Sharks

    Game Recap – 11/15/2018 – Toronto Maple Leafs v. San Jose Sharks

    Time: Thursday, Novemeber 15th , 2018

    Toronto: 12-6-0 for 24 points

    San Jose: 10-6-3 for 23 points

    The Toronto Maple Leafs come into San Jose on the 2nd leg of their western trip after having taken apart the struggling LA Kings. Expect a goalies duel between Leafs goaltender Frederik Andersen and Sharks goaltender Martin Jones.

    Top Scorers/Goalie Matchup

    Morgan Rielly – 23 points (8 goals 15 assists)

    Mitch Marner – 22 points (5 goals 17 assists)

    John Tavares – 22 points (11 goals 11 assists) 49% on face-offs

    Auston Matthews – 16 points (10 goals 6 assists) 53% on Face-off

    Brent Burns –21 points (3 goals 18 assists)

    Timo Meier– 16 points (12 goal 6 assists)

    Logan Couture– 17 points (6 goal 11 assist)

    Tomas Hertl– 16 points (5 goal 11 assists)

    Frederik Andersen

    10-5-0 2.02GAA .934SV%

    Martin Jones

    9-4-1 2.79GAA .898SV%

    Probable Lineups:

    Toronto:

    Kasperi Kapanen – John Tavares – Zach Hyman

    Mitch Marner – Nazem Kadri– Patrick Marleau

    Tyler Ennis – Pars Lindholm – Connor Brown

    Andreas Johnsson – Frederik Gauthier – Josh Leivo

    Morgan Rielly – Ron Hainsey

    Jake Gardiner – Nikita Zaitsev

    Travis Dermott – Igor Ozhiganov

    Frederik Andersen

    Garrett Sparks
    Scratched: Justin Holl & Martin Marincin

    Injuries: Nathan Horton (Back), Auston Matthews (Shoulder)

    Suspension: None

    San Jose:

    Timo Meier – Logan Couture– Joe Pavelski

    Marcus Sorensen – Joe Thornton– Kevin LaBanc

    Evander Kane– Antti Suomela – Joonas Donskoi

    Barclay Goodrow – Rourke Chartier – Melker Karlsson

    Joakim Ryan –Brent Burns

    Brendan Dillion – Erik Karlsson

    Marc-Eduoard Vlasic – Justin Braun

    Martin Jones

    Aaron Dell
    Scratched:

    Injuries: Tomas Hertl (lower body)

    Suspension: None

    Keys to Winning against SJ:

    1. Puck Possession
      1. Puck Possession, need to get the majority of it. Make sure they don’t have much time to make plays in your zone.
    2. Play Your Game
      1. Don’t get suckered into playing the SJ style of play. Some of their players will try to sucker you into taking dumb penalties and do things uncharacteristic of your style. Don’t fall for it.
    3. Keep the Depth Scoring Coming
      1. The Depth has come alive the last few games, needs to remain dangerous. Keep teams thinking.

    Game Day Lineups:

    First Period:
    San Jose Penalty – 00:08 – Barclay Goodrow 2 minutes from Roughing
    Toronto Goal – 02:10 – John Tavares (12) from Mitch Marner (18) and Morgan Rielly (16)
    San Jose Goal – 05:28 – Kevin Labanc (3) from Erik Karlsson (9) and Joey Ryan (3)
    San Jose Penalty – 10:58 – Timo Meier 2 minutes from Roughing
    Toronto Penalty – 10:58 – Nazem Kadri 2 minutes from Roughing
    Toronto Goal – 11:47 – Kasperi Kapanen (7) from Patrick Marleau (8) and Travis Dermott(3)
    Toronto Penalty – 12:10 – Morgan Rielly 2 minutes from Slashing
    San Jose Goal – 12:51 – Joe Pavelski (11) from Brent Burns (19) and Erik Karlsson(10)
    San Jose Penalty – 13:32 – Timo Meier 2 minutes from Interference
    San Jose Goal – 18:21 – Marc-Eduoard Vlasic (1) from Joe Pavelski (3) and Timo Meier(7)

    End of 1st – TOR – 2 SJ – 3

    Shots 12 16

    Faceoffs 13/18 5/18

    Hits 7 14

    PP 0/2 1/1

    Analysis:

    Leafs looked poised to win from the beginning, San Jose would respond but then give up a goal. Toronto had far too many brain cramps, and the way the score ended after the first period shows it.

    Need to Do:

    need to clean up the defensive end and start capitalizing on their powerplays.

    Second Period:
    Toronto Goal – 02:30 – Josh Leivo (2) from Tyler Ennis (2) and Frederik Gauthier (1)
    San Jose Penalty – 07:03 – Rouke Chartier 2 minutes for Elbowing
    San Jose Penalty – 11:19 – Zach Hyman 2 minutes for Tripping
    Toronto SH Goal – 12:06 – Kasperi Kapanen (8) from Mitch Marner (19)

    End of 2nd – TOR – 4 SJ – 3

    Shots 29 30

    Faceoffs 24/32 18/32

    Hits 12 19

    PP 0/3 1/2

    Analysis:

    Leafs went back to what they do best using their speed. Kapanen gives the Leafs the lead with a beauty of a shorthanded goal.

    Need to Do:

    Keep your foot on the pedal. Make smart plays.

    Third Period:
    Toronto Penalty – 06:06 – Frederik Gauthier 2 minutes for Interference
    Toronto Goal – 13:54 – Mitch Marner (6) from Frederik Andersen (1)
    Toronto Penalty – 14:56 – Nazem Kadri 2 minutes for Roughing
    Toronto Penalty – 14:56 – Nazem Kadri 2 minutes for Roughing
    San Jose Penalty – 14:56 – Melker Karlsson 2 minutes for Roughing
    Toronto Penalty – 14:56 – Melker Karlsson 2 minutes for Roughing

    End of 3rd – TOR – 5 SJ – 3

    Shots 34 45

    Faceoffs 36/58 22/58

    Hits 19 32

    PP 0/3 1/3

    Analysis:

    Huge win for Toronto on the road again as the Leafs continue to show they are a powerhouse team.

    Next Up:

    Toronto (13-6-0 26pts) @ Anaheim (8-9-3 19pts)

    St. Louis (6-7-3 15pts) @ San Jose (10-7-3 13pts)

    You can watch TXHT Live this Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 14th, 2018 — News and Notes

    November 14th, 2018 — News and Notes

     

     

    Today is Wednesday, November 14th, 2018, and these are your news and notes…

     

    There were nine contests in action last night…

     

    NEW JERSEY 4, Pittsburgh 2

    New Jersey’s Taylor Hall recorded his eighth career four-point performance in the Devils 4-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins.

     

    NY ISLANDERS 5, Vancouver 2

     

    Mathew Barzal of the NY Islanders would register his 100th career point in his 101st game, becoming the sixth player to reach the 100 point mark among active NHL players.

     

     

    The Islanders would go on to rout the Vancouver Canucks 5-2

     

    Florida 2, PHILADELPHIA 1

    Florida’s Mike Hoffman would score to extend his point-scoring streak to an NHL-high 13 games on the season in the Florida Panthers one-goal win over the Philadelphia Flyers last night.

    Also in this contest, Panthers G Roberto Luongo became the fourth goaltender in League history to win four contests to be at the age of 39 or older.

    BUFFALO 2, Tampa Bay 1

    Buffalo has now won three in a row and seven out of their last 11 in the big win over the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1 in Buffalo last night.

     

    DETROIT 6, Arizona 1

     

    Before the contest, the Detroit Red Wings held their pre-game skate in the Hockey Fights Cancer practice jerseys.

     

    https://twitter.com/DetroitRedWings/status/1062505290602631168

     

    Washington 5, MINNESOTA 2

    Tom Wilson would return to action, by registering his first goal of the season, and helped the defending champions take down the Minnesota Wild with a 5-2 win.

    Full Gameday Preview and Coverage – 11/13/18 – Washington Capitals v. Minnesota Wild

     

    EDMONTON 6, Montreal 2

    Edmonton’s Connor McDavid would have his 31st three-point contest, all assists, in Edmonton’s big win over the Canadiens.  Evgeny Malkin and Patrick Kane are the two players behind McDavid with 28 and 27, respectively.  This mark dates back to the 2015-16 NHL season.

    Despite Montreal Canadiens Max Domi registering a goal in the first six minutes in the contest to tie the game 1-1, it would not be enough as the Edmonton Oilers would go on to defeat Montreal 6-2.

    Domi’s goal would be his 10th of the season and the most of his career since the 2015-16 season.

     

    Toronto 5, LOS ANGELES 1

    The Toronto Maple Leafs began their West Coast trip with a big win over the Los Angeles Kings 5-1.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor, Steve Gardiner has your recap of that contest at the following link.

    Toronto @ Los Angeles – 14/11/2018 – Game Day Preview and Recap

     

    SAN JOSE 5, Nashville 4

    San Jose Sharks Erik Karlsson would become the fifth player to record 400 career assists and achieved this mark in 646 games with the Sharks defeating the Nashville Predators 5-4.

    Joe Thornton of the Sharks would reach the 400 career goal mark and became the 11th player to have at least 400 goals and 1,000 assists in their careers.

    Today, there are four games on the schedule:

     

    For more news, notes, info, and stats:

     

    In NHL news…

    -Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada’s Elliotte Friedman released a new episode of the “31 Thoughts” podcast today.

    https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1062805606145286144

     

    -The Los Angeles Kings traded F Tanner Pearson for Pittsburgh Penguins F Carl Hagelin earlier today.

     

    You can watch TXHT Live tonight at 7p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • Toronto @ Los Angeles – 14/11/2018 – Game Day Preview and Recap

    Toronto @ Los Angeles – 14/11/2018 – Game Day Preview and Recap

    Time: Tuesday, Novemeber 13th , 2018

    Toronto: 11-6-0 for 22 points

    Los Angeles: 5-10-1 for 11 points

    The Toronto Maple Leafs comes to Los Angeles hoping to get back to their winning ways on the road, after being taken apart by the Boston Bruins. While LA is still adjusting to new coaching and having lost both their starting and backup goalies and have turned to Peter Budaj to steer the ship.

    Top Scorers/Goalie Matchup

    Morgan Rielly – 21 points (7 goals 14 assists)

    Mitch Marner – 20 points (5 goals 15 assists)

    John Tavares – 19 points (10 goals 9 assists) 49% on face-offs

    Auston Matthews – 16 points (10 goals 6 assists) 53% on Face-off

    Ilya Kovalchuck –14 points (5 goals 9 assists)

    Jeff Carter– 10 points (4 goal 6 assists)

    Drew Doughty– 10 points (1 goal 9 assist)

    Tyler Toffoli– 9 points (4 goal 5 assists)

    Frederik Andersen

    9-5-0 2.10GAA .933SV%

    Peter Budaj

    0-0-0 2.00GAA .909SV%

    Probable Lineups:

    Toronto:

    Kasperi Kapanen – John Tavares – Zach Hyman

    Mitch Marner – Nazem Kadri– Patrick Marleau

    Tyler Ennis – Pars Lindholm – Connor Brown

    Andreas Johnsson – Frederik Gauthier – Josh Leivo

    Morgan Rielly – Ron Hainsey

    Jake Gardiner – Nikita Zaitsev

    Travis Dermott – Igor Ozhiganov

    Frederik Andersen

    Garrett Sparks
    Scratched: Justin Holl & Martin Marincin

    Injuries: Nathan Horton (Back), Auston Matthews (Shoulder)

    Suspension: None

    Los Angeles:

    Aaron Iaffalo – Anze Kopitar – Dustin Brown

    Ilya Kovalchuck – Jeff Carter– Tyler Toffoli

    Tanne Pearson– Mike Amadio – Trevor Lewis

    Kyle Clifford – Adrian Kempe – Nate Thompson

    Derek Forbort –Drew Doughty

    Alec Martinez – Jake Muzzin

    Dion Phaneuf – Oscar Fantenberg

    Peter Budaj

    Cal Petersen

    Scratched:

    Injuries: Jonathan Quick (Knee), Jack Campbell (Knee), Jonny Brodinski (Shoulder), Gabriel Valardi (Back)

    Suspension: None

    3 Keys to Winning against LA:

    1. Use your speed
      1. Los Angeles is considered one of the slower teams in the league. Keep your legs moving to give yourself a huge advantage.
    2. Score 2 or more
      1. Los Angeles has struggled to score 2 goals. If the Leafs score more than 2 goals then LA would be hard pressed to win.
    3. Powerplay, Get some.
      1. One of the top powerplays on the road. Need to get chances against LA.

    Game Day Lineups:

    First Period:

    Los Angeles Penalty – 01:15 – Dustin Brown 2 minutes from Slashing

    Toronto Goal PP – 02:42 – Nazem Kadri (6) from Mitch Marner (16) and John Tavares (10)

    Los Angeles Penalty – 04:17 – Tanner Pearson 2 minutes from Slashing

    Toronto PP Goal – 06:12 – John Tavares (11) from Ron Hainsey (5) and Morgan Rielly (13)

    Toronto Penalty – 09:26 – Morgan Rielly 2 minutes from Tripping

    Los Angeles Goal – 14:28 – Adrian Kempe (2) from Dion Phaneuf (1)

    Los Angeles Penalty – 16:08 – Jeff Carter 2 minutes from Tripping

     

    End of 1st – TOR – 2       LA – 1

    Shots              16                08

    Faceoffs         7/16          9/16

    Hits               6                  4

    PP                 2/3              0/1

    Analysis:

    Leafs came ready to be aggressive against the Kings. Attacking offensively and defensively putting everything at the net and getting the most chances possible and preparing for rebounds. Using speed to get chances and not give LA any chances.

    Need to Do:

    Keep the pace up, the Kings have trouble with the up-tempo style of play

    Second Period:

    Toronto Goal – 01:15 – Morgan Rielly (8) from John Tavares (11)

    Toronto Goal – 04:33 – Andreas Johnsson (2) from Travis Dermott (2) and Par Lindholm (5)

    Los Angeles Penalty – 05:38 – Alex Iafallo 4 minutes for High Sticking

    Toronto PP Goal – 07:19 – Nazem Kadri (7) from Patrick Marleau (7) and Mitch Marner (17)

    End of 2nd – TOR – 5        LA – 1

    Shots               29                   16

    Faceoffs          14/33            18/33

    Hits                 8                       6

    PP                   3/4                  0/2

    Analysis:

    Leafs continued the pace and kept moving their feet. Which lead to more chances and goals. The Kings and the goalie combo of Budaj and Peterson couldn’t survive

    Need to Do:

    Shut it down in the 3rd and make sure you close down any chance of a comeback.

    Third Period:

    Los Angeles Penalty – 01:51 – Par Lindholm 2 minutes for Slashing

    End of 3rd – TOR – 5         LA – 1

    Shots              34                   24

    Faceoffs        27/56             29/56

    Hits               12                    8

    PP                 3/5                   0/2

     Analysis:

    Huge win for Toronto after the rough night in Boston. Leafs basically dominated for 40 minutes and then settled in defensively to shut it down in the 3rd.

    Next Up:

    Toronto (12-6-0 24pts) @ San Jose (10-6-3 23pts)

    Los Angeles (5-11-1 11pts) @ Chicago (6-8-4 17pts)

     

    You can watch TXHT Live tonight at 7p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

     

  • A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 3

    A Maple Leaf prospect overview – Part 3

    If you don’t follow much of the American Hockey League, OHL, KHL or any of the Swedish Leagues, that’s 100% ok. By the end of this article, you will have an overview of what you can expect coming out of the Leafs organization over the next few years and if I can give you hint, you should be very excited. These are in no particular order, just going to do my best to give you an overview of what’s in the Maple Leafs system over the next few weeks.

    Part 3 will consist of 5 players that we haven’t discussed and are a mix of players on the verge of making the Leafs roster and a couple that are surprises to be on this list. This will conclude the prospect overview.

    1. Pierre Engvall– Drafted in the 7th round, #188 overall, in 2014
      Position: Left Wing
      Shoots: Left
      Born: May 31st, 1996 — Ljungby, Sweden
      Height: 6’3”
      Weight: 190 lbs
    1. Background: Engvall came from the Swedish leagues after scoring 20 goals and jumped onto the Marlies roster for the last 10 games putting up 8 points and again putting up strong point in the AHL Playoffs
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating – Engvall is not the fastest skater but by no means is he slow either. He has good agility and good edge work. Needs to build some more strength to make him harder to knock off the puck.
      • Offensively – Engvall can play the cycle game and has great on ice vision. Passing is his greatest strength, he’s creative in using whether it’s behind the back or right through the seam and on the top. Engvall can score with a very nice wrist shot and has a pretty decent slapper to top it off with
      • Defensively – Engvall blocks shots, has a great stick and is always in the right position. He never forgets to back either.
      • Comparison: If I had to choose on style alone, a bigger version of Connor Brown
    1. Calle Rosen– Free Agent signing from Sweden in 2017
      Position: Defence
      Shoots: Left
      Born: February 2nd, 1994 — Vaxjo, Sweden
      Height: 6‘1”
      Weight: 195

      1. Background: Another Swedish defencemen that signed with Toronto in 2017. Rosen much different, made the Leafs roster out of camp but only played 4 games and was sent to the Marlies where he put big numbers 4 goals and 22 assists in 62 games and then kicked it up in the AHL playoffs scoring 5 goals 11 assists in 16 games.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Slick skater and excellent acceleration. Superb edge work and pivots. His skating ability is the bridge to his two-way game. Rosen could potentially be a top 4 guy if he puts on some lower body weight to make him more difficult to knock off the puck.
        • Offence: Amazing vision on the ice, and moves the puck well. He can retrieve dump-ins and skate them out effectively. Rosen is not a big risk taker and rarely jumps into the rush. Makes simple but smart plays at the blue and keeps the puck moving. Rosen has a good shot but it’s not overpowering
        • Defence: Rosen brings a solid defensive game, his speed keeps players in front of him and Rosen has a fantastic stick that causes a lot of turnovers. He then takes the puck and turns it into instant offence.
        • Comparison: Closest Style comparison would be Kris Letang (with less offence and better defence)
    1. Yegor Korshev – Drafted in the 2nd round, #31 overall, in 2016
      Position: Right Wing
      Shoots: Left
      Born: July 10th, 1996 — Novosibirsk, Russia
      Height: 6‘4”
      Weight: 180 lbs

      1. Background: Korshev continues to improve every season setting career highs in points every year the last 3 years.
      2. Scouting Report:
        • Skating: Korshev has good skating and good acceleration and is very strong on his skates. He uses the balance and strength on his skates to cradle the puck and fight through the checks.
        • Offence: Great stickhandler will dangle you one on one. Excellent playmaker and uses his stickhandling and positioning to make room for his teammates. He needs to put on more weight, loves the cycle game and wins tons of puck battles with his size. Which will get better as he puts more weight on and grows into his body. Has high end hockey IQ and always seems to make the smart play. Has a decent wrist shot but could improve his release. Korshev scores the majority of his goals from right around the night using his big body. Can also score by rebounds, tip-ins and one timers.
        • Defence: Korshev brings a gritty game to defence, loves to hit. His stick is huge at cutting down lanes and he’s in position pretty well all the time, from time to time he makes the normal young player makes while playing defence.
        • Comparison: Closest comparison of style Nikolai Kulemin. But with more high ends to his game.

    4. Jeremy Bracco– Drafted in the 2nd round, #61 overall in 2015- Kitchener Rangers
    Position: Right Wing
    Shoots: Right
    Born: March 17th, 1997 — Freeport, New York
    Height: 5‘10”
    Weight: 190 lbs

    1. Background: Bracco had a solid first season with the Marlies, although he was scratched for most of the AHL playoffs due to the Leafs sending back players like Andreas Johnsson and Carl Grundstrom to the Marlies for their playoff run. Bracco has always been talked about for his diminutive size and told he might never make an NHL roster because of it.
    2. Scouting Report:
      • Skating: If you’re a small forward in the NHL, there’s one thing you need to have to make up for it. Bracco has enough speed to pass it on to 5 more players. Excellent speed, acceleration and edge work to avoid defenders on a dime.
      • Offence: Bracco has great hands that always make him dangerous off the rush with his insane speed. He has fantastic vision and passing skills which make him the ideal playmaker. Bracco has a good wrist shot but is hesitant to shoot it, that will be something that needs to change, as it did with Mitch Marner. The one thing you’ll about this kid is he’s not afraid to go to the dirty areas.
      • Defence: This is where Bracco needs work. He has tendency to not back check hard and to fly the zone early. He won’t earn any roster spots playing like that in the NHL. Especially not under Mike Babcock.
      • Comparison: Closest comparison Johnny Gaudreau

    5. Andreas Borgman– Free Agent signing from Sweden in 2017
    Position: Defence
    Shoots: Left
    Born: June 18th, 1995 — Stockholm, Sweden
    Height: 6‘0”
    Weight: 212 lbs

    Background: Borgman was a free agent signing who made impact on last years roster. He won a spot right out of camp and played in 48 NHL games. This season he faired so well, with Ozhiganov, Holl, Rosen and Marincin outplaying him for the final spot.

    Scouting Report:

    Skating: Decent skater, with adequate edgework and a strong lower body that helps him win puck battles

    Offence: Borgman’s slapper is a force to be reckoned with. A bomb and accurate, he finds ways to get it through. But an even bigger weapon for the Swede is his wrist shot. Borgman has a good first pass and stretch pass. His stickhandling, and poise with the puck is decent as well. Borgman is not afraid to take chances and join the rush and even can skate the puck out of danger.

    Defence: Borgman’s defensive game needs work. He plays a very physical brand of hockey but he needs to pick his spots better when throwing hits.  His physicality tends to make him out of position.

    Comparison: Closest comparison Colton Parayko

     

    You can watch TXHT Live Tuesday at 8p EST on both Twitch and Facebook Live.

  • November 11th, 2018 — News and Notes

    Today is Sunday, November 11th, 2018, and these are your news and notes.

    There were 11 games on tap yesterday…

     

    BUFFALO 4, Vancouver 3 (SO)

     

    The Buffalo Sabres overcame a multi-goal deficit in the last five minutes and would win the contest for the seventh time in franchise history and the first since March of 2010 in a 3-2 win in a shootout over the Montreal Canadiens.

     

    PHILADELPHIA 4, Chicago 0

    Philadelphia Flyers captain Claude Giroux became the ninth player to reach the 50 game mark while registering three points in a contest.

     

    Nashville 5, DALLAS 4 (OT)

     

    Mattais Ekholm netted the game-winner in the extra frame to give the Nashville Predators the 5-4 win over the Dallas Stars.

     

    Nashville is 8-0-0 on the road this season.  They are the third team in League history to win at least eight of their first road games to start the season.

     

    BOSTON 5, Toronto 1

    Boston Bruins David Pastrnak registered a hat trick for the second time this season against the Toronto Maple Leafs and joins six others for the same mark between the regular-season and the playoffs.

    TXHT’s Toronto Maple Leafs contributor Steve Gardiner has his recap of the contest at the following link.

     

    Toronto Maple Leafs @ Boston Bruins – 10/11/2018 – Game Preview & Recap

     

    MONTREAL 5, Vegas 4

     

    Between three lead changes in this contest, the Montreal Canadiens would go on to defeat the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4.  Tomas Tatar would net the game winner against his former club.

    Prior to the contest, the Montreal Canadiens honoured Max Pacioretty with a video tribute.

     

    Ottawa 6, TAMPA BAY 4

    Ottawa Senators Bobby Ryan has a three point performance, one goal and two assists, to lift the Senators over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

     

    FLORIDA 4, NY Islanders 2

     

    Florida Panthers Mike Hoffman extended his point-scoring streak to 11 games with a goal in the second period to help the Florida Panthers defeat the New York Islanders 4-2.

     

    PITTSBURGH 4, Arizona 0

     

    Pittsburgh Penguins G Casey DeSmith would net the shutout against the Arizona Coyotes with a 39 save performance and help the Penguins snap a five game slide.

     

    Detroit 4, CAROLINA 3 (SO)

     

    Detroit Red Wings G Johnathan Bernier made 45 saves and helped lift the Detroit Red Wings over the Carolina Hurricanes in a 4-3 shootout win.


    The Red Wings would also overcome a multi-goal deficit to win three consecutive games for the first time in the decorated franchise history of the Detroit Red Wings.

     

    NY Rangers 5, COLUMBUS 4 (SO)

     

    The New York Rangers have extended their point-streak in the standings to 6 games.

     

     

    Jimmy Vessey would net the winner in the shootout frame for the Rangers.

     

     

    Calgary 1, LOS ANGELES 0

     

    In the lone goal of the contest, Calgary’s Travis Hamonic would score his second goal of the season in the first three minutes of the contest.

     

    Today’s slate of games:

    nov_11th_schedy-10065829

     

    In NHL news…

    -The Florida Panthers honoured original team President, Mr. Torrey, last night with a video.  Mr. Torrey passed away back in May at the age of 83.

    Mr. William A. Torrey

    -The Dallas Stars honoured Jason Spezza who played in his 1,000th NHL game.

    -The Montreal Canadiens held their annual Military Tribute night by wearing camouflage practice jerseys before their contest against the Vegas Golden Knights last night.