"A lot of injuries, but they have some elite players. They have that core there still, with their goalie, too. They're a very good rush team. We all know they can make plays. They're dynamic. Their power play can be dynamic. We are going to have to be disciplined, but we are going to have to do a good job on our PK tonight. We are going to have to do a good job against their skilled forwards tonight. Hedman is back, too, so it is a challenge."
"I think with Mermis and Myers, they play three or four, and it is time to make a change. That is basically it. They both have come in and done a good job for us, but you have to manage their extended play a little bit. Mermis is good. He's done a good job. He plays with some snarl out there. It's simple movement with the puck. He has the ability to play on the right side as a left shot."
A regulation Maple Leafs win would move the team within two points of the Atlantic Division lead. The Leafs attack effectively with time and space, so defensive play away from the puck and strict offensive-zone puck management—avoiding turnovers—are essential. The Lightning are dealing with injuries but retain elite players, a core group including their goalie, and a potent rush attack and dynamic power play. Discipline and strong penalty killing will be required to contain skilled forwards. A defensive lineup change inserts Dakota Mermis for Philippe Myers to manage ice time; Mermis brings physicality, simple puck movement and can play the right side as a left shot. Calle Jarnkrok replaces Nick Robertson to bolster penalty killing and checking.
#toronto-maple-leafs #tampa-bay-lightning #lineup-changes #penalty-killing #atlantic-division-standings
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