"The first two periods were really strong, and the third period wasn't; it got away from us, and it got away from us quickly. Against this team, based on our positional play and structure, we have to make sure we don't give them time and space. This is a team where the more we can possess the puck, the better off we'll be. The details need to be there against them because they have some dangerous players. You don't want to be giving them time and space. That is going to be based on where we are on the ice - getting above - and also based on our decisions with the puck."
"It can be really good. I thought when the guys talked in the room after the game, they were positive. The vibe seems good today. We have a couple of fresh bodies coming in, which is good on a back-to-back. Obviously, Willy is a guy we need. He has been very good for us. We are hoping to get a really good response from Max tonight."
William Nylander returns to the Maple Leafs lineup as the team visits the Pittsburgh Penguins, seeking to avoid falling further behind in the early Eastern playoff race. Penguins coach Dan Muse cited a third-period collapse in the teams' first meeting and emphasized strict positional play, limiting time and space, puck possession and careful decisions. Leafs coach Craig Berube described a positive team vibe, noted fresh bodies on the back-to-back and stressed Nylander's importance. Berube instructed Max Domi to increase engagement, pace, physicality and net presence after a recent healthy scratch and prior conversation.
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