After quite the show from Joseph Woll, the rookie Maple Leafs goaltender finds himself winning another start tonight as the Leafs face off against the Dallas Stars. The Leafs now have won 2 games straight for the second time this season and will look to reach a 3-game win streak in their 7th game of the season. Most importantly, as lines are starting to look a bit more consistent, the team will look to build chemistry and improve on their systems in hopes of playing a better game defensively while also being able to connect and finish off plays offensively. Max Domi faces off against the team he was traded to at last year’s trade deadline and will look to have himself a “revenge” game and continue to take positive steps after a slow start with the Leafs.
Leafs Projected Lineup
Three Things to Look Out For
Klingberg
John Klingberg had a slow start with the Leafs and was seen by many as a write-off before he was given an honest chance. Sometimes, all you need is a change of lines for things to spark, and that seems to be the case with Klingberg, as he looks to be playing a much better game now that he is paired with Mark Giordano. Klingberg won’t be relied on as the “shutdown” guy but will look to add to the team offensively. If you pay close attention, you will notice that most of his starts will be offensive zone faceoffs. Keep an eye on Klingberg as he looks to continue gaining positive momentum.
Reaves
Ryan Reaves was brought to the Leafs to bring personality to both the locker room and on the ice. The only issue, at 36 years old, his on-ice game has been on the decline. Like Klingberg, it wouldn’t be smart to rely on Reaves defensively. Reaves is viewed as the bodyguard for the Leafs stars, but if he’s not throwing hits or getting into fights, he needs to find other ways to be effective. The most successful players who play into their late thirties are able to find ways to adapt to the game to still be effective, and Reaves will need to do that as well.
Knies
Matthew Knies has been a hyped, long-anticipated prospect who is now in his rookie season with the Leafs. The power forward has lots of potential and is constantly pushing for further opportunities. Knies has developed some quick chemistry with Domi in the little time they’ve played together. They will look to grow that chemistry tonight as Knies looks to be effective along the wall and defensively, and Domi faces his former team.
Tonight’s game starts at 8:00 PM EST on TSN4!
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