Lyubushkin's physical presence rubbing off on his teammates - even the skilled forwards

Since coming over from Arizona Lyubushkin has more than double the amount of hits as the next Leafs defenseman. In saying that, Timothy Liljegren and Rasmus Sandin have become much more physical in separating players from pucks than they were earlier in the season. Up front, the Leafs forward group are finishing their hits more frequently on the forecheck.

The most notable change in physicality has been Marner. Last night alone, he was credited with 7 hits. Prior to Lyubushkin arriving, Marner had thrown 20 hits and since his arrival Marner has thrown more than double that (43) in significantly less games. Not saying that the increase in physicality is all Lyubushkin's doing, but it appears that his physical play and presence has rubbed off on the rest of the team.

It is a much needed and welcomed change this late in the season as the Leafs are more capable to engage and compete in playoff style games that are more physical and tight checking. Hopefully, this type of play continues to into the playoffs, as it should, and that more players *cough* William Nylander *cough* engage more consistently in it knowing they have better protection from retaliation.