Paul Maurice on blowing out the Leafs in Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead: "We got beat 8-1 in Game 4 (of the 2024 Cup final)... All of it is always closer than you think"
Briefly

Head coach Paul Maurice expressed the significance of scoring the first goal during the Panthers' dominating 6-1 playoff win against the Maple Leafs. He emphasized the competitive nature of the game and credited goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky for making critical saves that kept the momentum in favor of the Panthers. Maurice noted that Bobrovsky's grooved performance, alongside improved defensive play from the team, was vital in turning the game. This victory marks a pivotal moment in the series as the Panthers aim for control moving forward.
"It felt important because that game was really fast and well executed by both teams up and down the ice early. Getting the first one was important... Sergei Bobrovsky faced two or three breakaways and was the pivot point in the way the game went."
"I think Sergei is always available to get into a groove. His prep doesn't change... He's trained himself with the style of game that we play... His anticipation becomes very good."
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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