This is a big test for a Leafs team that has put together four straight wins, all in the absence of Auston Matthews, might I add.
Toronto has a one-day rest advantage after the Panthers took the ice on Tuesday where they were served a harsh reality check losing 4-1 to the Caps at home.
Part of me thinks the defending champs are coasting, but with the Leafs playing some physical hockey of late, they might be able to match Florida’s forecheck and really make a statement here away from home.
The Bruins were shutout 2-0 on home ice by the Canucks in another embarrassing performance last night, and things aren’t about to get any easier with a trip to Long Island to face Patrick Roy’s side.
The Isles have made a bad habit of allowing third-period goals, but this is a unique spot for Boston given they’ve played on one back-to-back set of games all year.
To their credit, they beat the Kraken last time out, but with the B’s ranked dead last in the league in third-period goals, this feels like the perfect storm for the Isles to pick up a well-needed win.
- Player Pick: Kyle Palmieri Anytime Goal Scorer
The Canucks were impressive shutting out the Bruins last night, but their long week continues Thursday with the third of six straight road games in Pittsburgh.
Like Boston, Vancouver has played only one back-to-back set all year, losing the second half to Nashville 5-3 earlier in the month.
They’d sorely like to have J.T. Miller on the ice during this stretch, and with goalie Thatcher Demko still day to day, the Canucks’ depth will be tested immediately.
- Player Pick: Evgeni Malkin Anytime Goal Scorer