The Toronto Maple Leafs have undergone a significant transformation, moving away from their previous puck possession style, which was a hallmark of the Kyle Dubas era. Under General Manager Brad Treliving, the team has adopted a more rugged approach, aiming to enhance their playoff performance. However, the Leafs still struggle with scoring, particularly on the power play, as evidenced by their recent 3-0 loss to the Vancouver Canucks, where they failed to capitalize on three power-play opportunities.
Leafs captain Auston Matthews acknowledged the team's disconnection during the game, stressing the need for improved puck movement and simplified play. Meanwhile, the Canucks are facing their own challenges, including internal conflicts between players J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. Despite their struggles, the Canucks managed to secure a much-needed win during their visit to the Scotiabank Arena, further complicating the playoff picture for both teams.