Game Preview: Toronto Maple Leafs vs Columbus Blue Jackets | 12/29/23

The Leafs have their second last game of 2023 tonight as they face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Leafs came out flat against the Senators after the Christmas break, ultimately losing 4-2. The Leafs will need to come out strong tonight and will look to play a full game and push to get back in the win column.

Leafs Projected Lineup

Three Things to Look Out For

Giordano

Mark Giordano is returning from injury tonight and finds himself paired with Timothy Liljegren. With Giordano now back, the Leafs have the healthiest blue-line they can possibly have, with Klingberg and Muzzin both ruled out for the rest of this season. Giordano will look to ease back into the lineup on the third pairing and will look to provide further defensive stability to this Leafs team.

Samsonov

Ilya Samsonov has been the recipient of a lot of criticism this season, and for decent reason, as he’s’ had a tough stretch of hockey with the Leafs this season. It’s’ gotten to the point where rumours are circulating about the Leafs adding another goalie. Samsonov has had some days off, and hopefully, that break has helped him to refresh. Samsonov’s’ struggles aren’t’ in skill but more so in between his ears, so a break would likely be a helping factor. Look for Samsonov to not get too discouraged and to have a rebound game tonight.

Gregor

Noah Gregor has been a welcome addition to this Leafs team after starting training camp on a professional tryout. Gregor plays his game with a lot of speed and can use that speed to create chances from nothing. He’s’ been less noticeable as of late but will look to have a solid game and push things forward for the Leafs offensively, defensively, and on the penalty kill.

Tonight’s game starts at 7 p.m. EST on Sportsnet!

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