Montreal, QC – The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing off against the Montreal Canadiens tonight for their first game after the trade deadline. The Leafs are looking to finish the season off strong to secure playoffs and a solid seeding for the playoffs.
- TV: Sportsnet & CBC
- Radio: TSN 1050
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Last Meeting:
The Leafs and Canadiens haven’t met since opening night this season on October 11th. The game was a thriller which saw the Leafs win 6-5 in a shootout while Matthews scored a hat-trick. The Leafs will look to play a better defensive game tonight while still adding on offensively.
LEAFS QUICK LOOK (36-19-8)
3rd in the Atlantic, 9th in the NHL
Leafs to Keep an Eye on:
- Joel Edmundson will be making his debut for the Leafs paired with Timothy Liljegren. Edmundson arrived just before puck drop last game and was itching to play after seeing a playoff like game. Edmundson is a physical defensive defenseman who excels at clearing players from the front of the net. Look for him to make an impact in his first game with the Leafs.
- Connor Dewar was a buzzer beater acquisition for the Leafs yesterday before the deadline and immediately will slot into the lineup. Dewar is a feisty defensive centre (who has also spent time on the wing) and still has some offensive skill potting 10 goals so far this season. Dewar is just 24 years old and will look to be a piece to help the Leafs both now and in the future.
- Timothy Liljegren stays in the lineup tonight over Benoit with an opportunity to prove to the coaching staff why he should be trusted. Liljegren has shown signs of solid defensive skill while being able to move the puck effectively but ultimately needs to limit his mistakes especially leading into the playoffs. With the playoffs being more punishing and the team’s defensive depth, it’s important Liljegren starts putting up some solid games again.
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