Toronto Maple Leafs fans entered Game Three of their series against the Florida Panthers with a 2-0 lead. There was a sense of tempered optimism—after all, it wouldn’t be unlike the Leafs to collapse in the NHL playoffs. Things took a turn in Florida, though one could argue the shift began in Game One.
The Maple Leaf faithful are tentative about losing their starting goalie in Game One. Florida forward Sam Bennett elbowed Toronto Goaltender Anthony Stolarz at 7:16 of the second period. Per the NHL website, he went to the bench vomiting during a commercial break just a few minutes later. The netminder did not make the flight for Game Three after missing the second game, raising speculations online of a concussion.
The Panthers lost the first two road games, but managed to bounce back for a 5-4 overtime win for their hometown fans Friday night. Florida forward Brad Marchand was credited with the final goal, a fluttering lob shot that sailed over the head of Toronto goaltender Joseph Woll. While not to blame for the lucky goal, he has raised concerns for a Maple Leaf team not known for their stellar defence. Going into Game Four, Woll has a 3.99 GAA this postseason.
Asking for five goals a game is a daunting task for any squad. With Panther goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky boasting a 2.94 GAA this postseason, wins are much more difficult. Even up 2-1, Toronto has a test ahead against the defending Stanley Cup champions. Florida’s aggressive forecheck appeared challenging for the Leafs’ back end.
Nothing is over in any playoffs until one side steals a game on the road. The defending champions look to hold serve for their home fans heading into Game Four on Sunday. Can the Leafs build up Woll, or are they destined for a knockout, with Stolarz spinning around their heads?
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