How the McCabe-Tanev shutdown pairing transforms the Leafs' defense, and what can we learn from the power play's success without Matthews? - Maple Leafs Notebook
Briefly

The pairing of Chris Tanev and Jake McCabe is proving impactful, controlling over 54% of shot attempts and 60% of expected goals in just over 126 minutes together.
Tanev and McCabe’s defensive strength and ability to lead breakouts make them a dynamic duo, a quality the Leafs have sought for a true shutdown pairing.
Historically, the Leafs have struggled to find effective shutdown pairings during playoffs, often needing to scrape one together.
With the early success of McCabe-Tanev, the Leafs might finally have the reliable defensive duo they need to strengthen their playoff aspirations.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
[
|
]