The Hall of Fame Game is a special tradition in Toronto. This year, the Leafs were hosting the Flames as the 2023 HHOF class was honored. Inducted members included Henrik Lundqvist, Pierre Turgeon, Mike Vernon, Tom Barasso, Caroline Ouellette, Ken Hitchcock, and Pierre Lacroix’s family.
First Star – William Nylander
Nylander has easily been the most consistent Leaf through the first 14 games of the season. He continued his hot streak in this one as he extended his season-opening point streak to 14 games and counting. Nylander played a total of 20:46, was plus two, scored two goals, had an assist, fired seven shots on goal, threw two hits, and had three takeaways as well; he was all over the scoresheet last night. One of Nylander’s goals came shorthanded, his first career shorthanded goal. With the way he is playing right now, the price tag on his next contract keeps going up. He is a dominant presence every single time he takes to the ice. He also isn’t shying away from the dirty areas of the game, and he’s being rewarded for it. Through 14 games this year, Nylander has nine goals and 12 assists for a total of 21 points.
Second Star – John Tavares
Tavares was noticeable at both ends of the rink last night. He played a total of 19:09; he scored a goal off of a gorgeous pass from William Nylander, fired five shots on goal, blocked one shot, threw one hit, and was 58.8% in the face-off dot. The 33 Ontario native has never been known for his speed, but this year, he seems to have unlocked another gear, and it’s incredibly noticeable whenever he is carrying the puck through the neutral zone as he enters the offensive zone. Through 14 games so far this year, Tavares has six goals and nine assists for a total of 15 points. Mr. Consistent. He is now just 10 points away from 1000 career points in his fantastic career.
Third Star – Joseph Woll
What? How can you name a goaltender who had a 0.857 save percentage on the night as one of the three stars of the game? Simple, his performance in overtime and in the shootout. There’s no denying Joe Woll has definitely struggled in his past couple of performances. In this one, though, two, maybe even three of the goals against him, he had no chance on. It was when the game went to overtime that Woll shined the most. He stopped a breakaway and had a handful of other impressive saves as well, including a 2 on 1 post to post save. Leafs Nation needs to be patient with Woll and remember he has only played in 20 games in his very young NHL career.
With each passing game, it is more and more apparent that Leafs GM Brad Treliving absolutely needs to address the blueline for this team, and he needs to do it sooner rather than later. Through their first eight home games so far this season, the blue and white have given up at least four goals in every single game; simply not good enough. Following tonight’s tilt, Flames defenceman requested a trade from the Flames, and he let it be known that he would absolutely welcome a trade to Toronto if it were possible. Will Treliving make the move? Who knows. The Leafs have a quick turnaround as they are right back at it tomorrow night when they host the red-hot Vancouver Canucks.
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