Pushing Through the Flu: Leafs Game Preview 27

The Leafs face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight as they look to continue the momentum they built on Tuesday night against the Rangers. The Leafs have had a lot of illness in the dressing room, but yet have still managed to play a solid game. It looks like more changes could be seen as Keefe has stated that the team lineup for tonight is subject to change.

Leafs Projected Lineup

Three Things to Look Out For

Gregor

Noah Gregor has played a fast and effective game while mainly playing on the Leafs fourth line and the penalty kill. His solid play earned him a promotion to the first line, with Matthew Knies out of the lineup due to illness. It looks like Gregor will be on that first line once again, and he will look to use his speed to create chances for Matthews and Nylander. Keep an eye on Gregor tonight as he looks to show more with a greater opportunity.

Samsonov

Ilya Samsonov was one of the first Leafs to battle this illness that’s been going around and is the projected starter for tonight‘s game. Samsonov has struggled to play a consistent game so far this season with the Leafs, and that can be seen by his last two starts. One was a shutout, while the other he looked much weaker and let in some goals he’d love to have back. Look for Samsonov to rebound tonight and start to build up some consistent play, as he has runway with the Leafs net. 

McCabe

Jake McCabe has started to elevate his game ever since coming back from his injury. He’s also spent most of that time on the right side, which typically would be his offside, but he’s looked much more composed. Now, he seems to be landing some big hits and playing a much better game. Look for McCabe to keep doing the things he does well while trying to be more of the player that the Leafs had hoped he’d be when they traded for him.

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

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