Auston Matthews comments ahead of what could amount to a must-win Game 3
After handing out a thumping to Tampa in game 1, the Leafs were thumped through the first 2.5 periods of game 2 before making it close. While the game ended 5-3, the Leafs seemed to be back on their heels most of the game as Tampa's stars took over. Hedman led the way with a goal and 3 assists, while their powerplay finally clicked, scoring on 3/7 opportunities.
Midway through the third, the Leafs mounted a small pushback, cutting the deficit to 5-3 after goals from Mitch Marner and Alex Kerfoot. The late push by the Leafs is something that past Leaf teams would not have been able to accomplish, past Leaf teams would've rolled over when the score was 5-1 and already regrouped, planning for the next game. It's a good sign going into game 3, as the Leafs know they can push back.
Auston Matthews commented on the Leafs' mindset heading into game three saying, "they pushed back and now it's our turn to push back and make sure we have an answer."
The Leafs know Tampa is going to come out flying at home tonight for game 3 and it is important the Leafs match or exceed their level of compete, especially in the first 10 minutes. Matthews and Marner have carried the team offensively through 2 games, but will have tougher matchups in Tampa meaning the rest of the forwards, specifically Tavares and Nylander will have to step up and capitalize on their weaker matchups.
With the series tied at 1-1, Game 3 is a very important game. It's the difference between the Leafs re-gaining home ice advantage and playing from ahead in the series and playing from behind and possibly dropping to 3-1 after Game 4 and being pushed to the brink heading back to Toronto. Make no mistake about it. Tonight's game is a must-win for the Leafs.
| POLL | ||
MAI 6 | 512 ANSWERS Auston Matthews comments ahead of what could amount to a must-win Game 3 Will the Leafs be able to steal one from Tampa on the road? | ||
| Yes | 471 | 92 % |
| No | 41 | 8 % |
| List of polls | ||
