"If you were expecting exciting end-to-end highly skilled hockey, you tuned into the wrong game, as the Flyers did a great job smothering the Maple Leafs, in what was, for the most part besides overtime, a boring hockey game. The Flyers were tenacious on the forecheck and kept Toronto's defencemen on their heels for the majority of the game and did a great job limiting any high-danger chances. The Leafs showed some character to grind it out and stick to their game plan."
"Scott Laughton made his first return to Philadelphia since being traded to the Maple Leafs last season and tied the game late in the third period shorthanded. It was a great moment for Laughton, who received a nice tribute video during the first period and a loud ovation from the Flyers' faithful. Hopefully this game gives him a boost as Laughton can be an x-factor for the Leafs during the second half of the season."
"Speaking of Maccelli, he deserves a shout out as he was dangerous with the puck on his stick and continues to look like a completely different player these last couple of weeks. It will be interesting to see where Maccelli lands in the lineup once William Nylander returns, but for now, he's taking advantage of playing time and looks to be a long-term option for the Leafs top nine."
The Maple Leafs secured two points in overtime in Philadelphia after grinding through a defensive, low-event game. The Flyers smothered the Leafs with a tenacious forecheck and limited high-danger chances, forcing a physical, low-skill contest for most of the game. Scott Laughton returned to Philadelphia, tied the game late in the third period shorthanded, received a tribute video and a loud ovation, and excelled in the faceoff circle. Morgan Rielly continued to struggle on the back end and was on ice for a Flyers goal. Matias Maccelli created danger, earned playing time, and appears poised for a top-nine role.
Read at TheLeafsNation
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