On this version of Toronto Maple Leafs Information & Rumors, I’ll take a look at a number of various things taking place throughout the Atlantic Division finish with ex-Maple Leafs gamers.

Merchandise One: The Atlantic Division Race

Rapidly trying on the Atlantic Division, the race is changing into extremely aggressive. Right here’s a breakdown of key findings:

First, Toronto’s sturdy begin has them quickly on the prime of the division. The Maple Leafs have put up a stable 12-6-2 report, displaying sturdy offensive firepower (61 objectives) and stable protection (50 objectives allowed). Their dwelling report (9-3-0) has been a big assist, and their projected factors are among the many highest within the division.

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The second-place Florida Panthers have been constant. With a 12-7-1 report, they continue to be a contender, boasting a stable purpose differential. They’ve been sturdy on the street (6-4-0), and their projected playoff likelihood is favorable at 94.1%. The Tampa Bay Lightning are in third place. Regardless of a slower begin (10-6-2), the Lightning are nonetheless a power, notably at dwelling (6-1-1). Their offense has been potent (66 objectives), however their protection has given up greater than anticipated (55 objectives).

The Boston Bruins are struggling in the course of the Atlantic. After dominating final season, they’ve discovered issues tougher this season, sitting at .500 (9-9-3). Their purpose differential is regarding (minus-20), they usually have struggled on the street (3-5-1). The Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Purple Wings additionally sit within the center. Each groups are on the sting of rivalry with 9 wins however present inconsistent performances, particularly of their street video games.

Associated: 5 Maple Leafs’ Surprises Driving Their Early Success

Lastly, the Ottawa Senators and the Montreal Canadiens have been in a tough patch. Ottawa is on a slide and has misplaced 4 straight, whereas Montreal’s struggles proceed. Their playoff likelihood is slipping, and enchancment is required in lots of areas.

Merchandise Two: Thank You to Petr Mrazek for Serving to Toronto Maintain First

Final evening (Nov. 22), Petr Mrazek stood out within the Chicago Blackhawks’ 3-1 win over the defending champion Panthers. With 32 saves, he restricted Florida to only one purpose, extending his streak of permitting not more than three objectives to 9 straight begins. Though his Maple Leafs tenure was rocky, Mrazek has discovered a house in Chicago with the rebuilding Blackhawks.

His stable efficiency stored Toronto on prime of the Atlantic—a shocking early-season twist for Maple Leafs followers. His rebound in Chicago underscores his skill to thrive in a distinct system.

Merchandise Three: Maple Leafs Goalie Play Is Massively Improved 

Talking of goaltending, the Maple Leafs’ goalie play has been one in all their most encouraging developments this season. Whereas the crew’s offensive firepower stays potent, their focus has shifted to a extra defensive type below head coach Craig Berube. Consequently, Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll have each stepped up, offering the crew with the fourth-best save proportion within the league. 

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The Maple Leafs’ goaltending has been a big power this season. After recovering from a preseason damage, Woll holds a .922 save proportion, whereas Stolarz has been elite with a .927 save proportion. The duo has helped the crew obtain a .913 crew save proportion, inserting them among the many prime within the league. With Stolarz impressing in his first actual likelihood as a No. 1 goalie, there’s consolation in permitting Stolarz and Woll to share the beginning position transferring ahead.

With the protection bettering and the goaltenders sustaining sturdy play, the Maple Leafs are well-positioned to make the playoffs and doubtlessly go additional than they’ve lately.

Merchandise 4: Bruce Cassidy Thought His Group Received Outworked

Vegas Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy shared that his crew was outworked by the Maple Leafs, noting their struggles with battles and races. He pointed to a missed two-on-one alternative on the penalty kill and a subsequent fast purpose by the Maple Leafs as turning factors within the sport. 

Cassidy highlighted the play of goaltender Adin Hill, who stored the sport from being much more lopsided. Nonetheless, Vegas’ lack of end and defensive lapses had been in the end expensive.

What’s Subsequent for the Maple Leafs? 

It’s at all times enjoyable to verify in on ex-Maple Leafs gamers. Mrazek was one instance, and former Maple Leafs defenseman Justin Holl is one other. Holl has had a quiet begin in his present position with the Purple Wings. He’s been out and in of the lineup. Over 12 video games this season, he’s managed only one help whereas rotating on the third pairing and competing for ice time.

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Recognized extra for his defensive contributions, Holl’s offensive peak was 23 factors throughout the 2021-22 season. Holl’s restricted manufacturing could remind Maple Leafs followers of his tenure in Toronto, the place he usually divided opinions about his effectiveness. With the Purple Wings going through the Bruins tonight (Nov. 23), one can hope that, like Mrazek, he can step up ultimately to assist his ex-team keep on the prime of the Atlantic.