The Toronto Maple Leafs will look to tie the game tonight against the Boston Bruins in Game 4 of the first round. After suffering a disappointing loss in Game 3, the team is eager to turn the tide and regain momentum on home ice.
Item 1: William Nylander scheduled to return for Game 4 against Bruins
The return of William Nylander could be a potential game-changer for the Maple Leafs. The good news today is that he can make his playoff debut after missing the first three games. According to reports, he is suffering from migraines. Riding on Nylander's offensive ability and addition to the power play, his return could provide a much-needed addition to Toronto's special teams unit. The power play and penalty kill have struggled so far in the series.
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Everyone knows Nylander's offensive skills, but he also adds quickness and offensive acumen to the penalty kill. He could be the addition the team needs to take advantage in this series. The 27-year-old winger was sidelined for the first three games of the series but will return at a crucial moment.
He's always been a Maple Leafs player that shows up during the playoffs and doesn't seem to be fazed by pressure. He scored a career-high 98 points (40 goals, 58 assists) in 82 games this postseason, and if he can give his team a jump, he could be the game-changer the team needs. There is sex.
Part 2: Can the Maple Leafs' power play turn the tide?
The Maple Leafs' struggles on special teams have been a major issue in this series against the Bruins. They were unable to capitalize on the power play and were 1-for-11 in chances. Considering the skill of the team, that would be confusing and unthinkable.
Even though the Maple Leafs are dominating evenly with more shot attempts, more shots on goal, and more expected goals, they still trail the Bruins in the scoring rankings simply due to a lack of special teams effort. I am aware that we are on equal footing.
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The Maple Leafs' entire offense could get a shot in the arm with Nylander returning to shore up the top power play unit. Fans should see improved performance on the Bruins' penalty kill and more scoring opportunities.
Item 3: TJ Brodie returns for defensive adjustment.
Defenseman TJ Brody will likely make his playoff debut with the Maple Leafs. He had a healthy scratch in the first three matches against Mark Giordano. Brodie should be itching to see action in games, and his defensive stability could make him a valuable presence on the blue line.
Item 4: Status for Game 4 unknown due to Ilya Lyubushkin's absence from practice
Ilya Lyubushkin was absent from Friday's practice due to personal reasons. However, despite his absence, he remains a potential option for the Maple Leafs in tonight's Game 4. He is away due to the birth of his third child.
The 30-year-old defenseman has made an impact on his new team. Acquired from the Anaheim Ducks on February 29, Lyubushkin had four assists, 64 hits and 30 blocked shots in 19 games with the Maple Leafs. If Lyubushkin is unable to play Saturday, Timothy Liljegren is expected to remain in the lineup.
What can the Maple Leafs expect from tonight's game?
Three things need to happen tonight for the Maple Leafs to win. First, they need to create a more favorable balance on special teams. Second, you have to ride the energy that lenders bring. And finally, we need to reduce the impact that Brad Marchand has on our psyche.
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If we can do those three things, we'll have a good chance of winning this game and the series. They then proceed down the road, where they appear to be thriving.
