Well, last game, I highlighted O’Reilly and Tavares as two players to keep an eye out on, and they didn’t let me down, with O’Reilly netting a hat trick and one assist, and Tavares had a goal and three assists. While there’s much debate on where Tavares and O’Reilly will end up in the lineup, there’s no doubt their line has looked solid so far. The Leafs are playing on home ice tonight before heading out for a five game road trip. It’s important to note that when the Leafs return for their next home game, it will be past the trade deadline, so there may be new players, and tonight might be the last home game we see from some players.
Leafs Projected Lineup
Wild Projected Lineup
Forwards
Kaprizov – Hartman – Zuccarello
Foligno – Eriksson Ek – Boldy
Greenway – Gaudreau – Duhaime
Shaw – Dewar – Reaves
Defense
Middleton – Spurgeon
Goligoski – Dumba
Mermis – Addison
Goalies
Gustavsson
Fleury
Three Things to Look Out For
Matthews
Matthews hasn’t been on the scoresheet as much lately, but he’s still contributing to the team’s success. The league lead in shot blocks has been held by Matthews many times throughout this season, as it seems to consistently be going between him and Nick Bonino. Matthews has upped his defensive and physical game and looks like a complete player. Let’s watch him tonight, hoping he finds himself back on the scoresheet.
Giordano
Giordano has played far more minutes this season than many expected he would, yet he has been a solid piece on this team. He is just three shot blocks shy of the record for most blocked shots in the NHL. It’s important to note that since 2005-06, they began tracking shot blocks in every game. This is an impressive feat, and maybe he has his shin pads to thank, which have lasted him about ten years now. Giordano has been a solid presence on this Leafs roster, and it will be interesting to see how he can continue to elevate this team.
Aston-Reese
Aston-Reese had been looking a bit dull before the Acciari addition. Since then, even though he hasn’t found himself on the scoresheet, he has looked much more dangerous while getting more chances. Acciari and Aston-Reese seem to be feeding off each other’s energy, which has led to a more physical game from the fourth line. It will be interesting to see how this line progresses and if they stick together, but let’s hope Aston-Reese has found a consistent linemate in Acciari.
Samsonov starts tonight as the Leafs look for a win against the Wild. The game can be watched at 7:00 pm EST on TSN.
Thanks for reading! Feel free to follow me on Twitter @nathan_bondy.
Preseason Debut – All New Blue – Leafs Late Night
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