The Leafs are on a 4 game winning streak, and although the last two of those games were against the Sharks, the Leafs have seemed to all contribute to the team’s success. The Leafs have been improving defensively and have played full efforts for 60 minutes, and doing that with a team with as much skill as the Leafs should result in more points, and it has for Toronto. Tonight, they face off against the Islanders as they begin a stretch where they will be tested more against some higher-level teams. The Leafs will need another full effort from the team tonight.
Leafs Latest Lineup
Three Things to Look Out For
Gregor
Noah Gregor plays his game with a lot of speed and energy, but ultimately, it can go unnoticed for periods of time throughout a game. Gregor hasn’t been quite as noticeable as he was to begin the season and will need to continue showing value for the Leafs as we approach the deadline and any potential depth-forward additions. We saw Holmberg pushed out of the lineup last season after the deadline, and if the Leafs are to add more forwards this deadline, someone will need to come out of the lineup. Gregor needs to continue playing with intensity, so keep an eye on Gregor tonight as he looks to make a difference in limited minutes.
Knies
Matthew Knies had a scare yesterday in practice when he twisted his knee and couldn’t put much weight on the leg. The injury didn’t end up being serious, though, as Knies will be in the lineup tonight. Knies was out skating this morning during the optional morning skate, so he’s tested his leg out. Knies is a power forward who has been finding his game with the Leafs after a slow start to the season. The chemistry is building, so keep an eye on Knies tonight.
Holmberg
Holmberg is another forward fighting for a roster spot on the Leafs. Holmberg, as mentioned earlier, was squeezed out of a roster spot last season after trade deadline additions came in and started this season with the Marlies. Holmberg has been getting into more games as Keefe looked to get a better look at the Swedish forward. Holmberg had a strong last game scoring a highlight reel one-handed goal. Holmberg will look to find his game offensively and become a 200-foot player for the Leafs. He stays in the lineup over Robertson tonight and will look to solidify his spot in the lineup.
Tonight’s game starts at 7 p.m. EST on TSN!
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