The team regained confidence and momentum after lineup changes and a new matchup plan on home ice. The Marlies produced their best performance since the Laval series, led by goaltender Artur Akhtyamov. After scoring an important opening goal, Toronto controlled the game and never looked back en route to a 5-2 win. A revamped fourth line featuring rookie Landon Sim created early pressure, drew a penalty, and helped Toronto kill an abbreviated situation. Cleveland’s shot advantage came mostly from the perimeter, limiting sustained zone control. The first goal proved critical in a must-win scenario, and the power play breakthrough was especially valuable as Cleveland committed penalties after the whistle.
"“We got our team back. They found their confidence. They found their mojo. And I knew they would. We've said it all year and all playoffs long: When their backs are against the wall, it brings out the best in them. I guess that is a good trait to have when your team is on the brink of losing.”"
"“We just have to bring it again. We've got to bottle it up, understand what was successful, make sure we get our rest, enjoy the win, and make sure we are ready to go on Sunday.”"
"As recommended in our piece after Game 3, John Gruden shook up the lines - including Bo Giroux at center, with Easton Cowan and Ryan Tverberg - and worked out a better matchup plan on home ice. The Marlies responded with their best performance since the Laval series. Aided by another outstanding performance from goaltender Artur Akhtyamov, Toronto never looked back after scoring the crucial opening goal en route to a 5-2 victory."
"The Jacob Quillan nullified the penalty halfway through, but the Marlies' new-look fourth line, with an injection of rookie Landon Sim's moxie, made an immediate impact. Sim made a nuisance of himself and was hauled down behind the Cleveland net, drawing a penalty inside three minutes. Marlies were feeling good about themselves and got the crowd into it early. Toronto killed the abbreviated penalty, with Akhtyamov making one key save on Owen Sillinger."
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