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Three Takeaways in Maple Leafs 3-2 Overtime Win Over Stars

Last night the Toronto Maple Leafs beat the Dallas Stars by a score of 3-2. What are the three key takeaways from the game?

The Toronto Maple Leafs beat the Dallas Stars in overtime last night by a score of 3-2. The team owes this win to Nick Robertson. Not only did he score two goals during the game, but his energy and hard work carried them.

Obviously, Robertson didn’t win the game alone; and, for the first time in a long time (it seems) the Maple Leafs showed some energy. However, Robertson’s inspired play carried his team to the win.

As noted, other Maple Leafs’ players made good plays on the night. Auston Matthews played good defense and was around the puck more than he’s been (to my eyes) this season. Michael Bunting made a great play and pass to Robertson for his first goal. Alex Kerfoot showed why he’s one of head coach Sheldon Keefe’s go-to guys.

Related: MAPLE LEAFS MUSINGS: LINEUP CHANGES, MUZZIN’S INJURY, KEEFE’S COMMENTS, SALARY CAP

Takeaway One: Nick Robertson Energizes the Play in His Season’s Debut

In the end, it was Robertson’s second goal night – scored at 3:46 of overtime – that gave the Maple Leafs the 3-2 win over the Dallas Stars last night. Perhaps even better, Robertson’s great defensive play thwarted a two-on-one in overtime. On the ensuing transition, Robertson passed the puck to the 60-goal Rocket Richard Trophy winner from last season – Matthews.

Matthews then gave the puck back to Robertson. He didn’t hesitate and fired a shot past the Stars’ goalie Scott Wedgewood. By the time the game was over, Robertson scored twice. For any who believed he couldn’t keep up at the NHL level with the Maple Leafs’ top six, he showed he could.

Nick Robertson, Maple Leafs

Robertson seized the opportunity and made the most of it. He played 14:24 TOI, including 1:45 on the power play. Each of his goals put his team up by one; and, in overtime obviously, his goal ended it.

It was Robertson’s season debut and he played his brother Jason for the second time in their careers. Nick’s Maple Leafs won the first meeting as well. After the final goal, the camera panned to the two players’ ecstatic Mom. It was a nice moment.

Related: Robertson In, Malgin Out in Maple Leafs’ Switcheroo

Takeaway Two: Michael Bunting Does More than Irritate

Michael Bunting had an impact on this game. He registered two assists – one on Robertson’s beautiful goal to put the team up 2-1. He was present and active, showing he doesn’t need Matthews and Mitch Marner to make a positive impact on his team. That said, he’s still a great partner with those two stars.

MIchael Bunting Toronto Maple Leafs

Of Bunting’s assists, one came on the power play and the other at five-on-five. If anything, Bunting’s game has improved since last season. He’s now scored a goal and three assists (for four points) in five games.

Will he beat last season’s 63 points? Don’t bet against it. Once the first line begins scoring, his totals will likely rise in accordance.

Takeaway Three: Auston Matthews Took a Beating & Produced

Auston Matthews was impressive last night. He was targeted and beaten on by the Stars, and still produced. He was cross-checked, high-sticked in the face, and jumped on. Matthews still showed up and carried the play. The Stars didn’t quit hitting him. He didn’t back down.

In the end, he might not have scored the overtime winner, but he sure sets it up perfectly. It was his 200th career assist. On the season, Matthews has only three points (a goal and two assists) in five games.

Maple Leafs Auston Matthews @reebeccathomson
Maple Leafs Auston Matthews photo by @reebeccathomson

However, are we seeing a new and tougher Matthews? He’s been ground down a bit by the heavy checking he’s faced this season. Last night was the worst he’s gotten, and last night was the best he’s played.

I have the feeling he’s simply going to explode in a flurry of goals.

Related: Maple Leafs News & Rumors: Muzzin, Kerfoot, Robertson & Lines

3 Comments

3 Comments

  1. Pingback: The Good, Bad, & Ugly in the Maple Leafs' 3-2 Win Over Dallas

  2. Pingback: Canadiens' Guhle, Harris, Xhekaj Stepping Up... Early Trade?

  3. Pingback: Canadiens’ Guhle, Harris, Xhekaj Stepping Up… Early Trade? - NEW Sport

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