BREAKING: Maple Leafs Defeat Back-to-Back champs Panthers 5-4 in Dramatic Game 1, Stolarz Injured in Controversial Hit, Nylander Shines with Two Goals
Toronto Maple Leafs Storm Through Panthers, Win Game 1 in a Thriller: Five Takeaways and a Belleville Senators’ Perspective
Leafs Lightning the Lamp Despite Controversial Bennett Hit
The Toronto Maple Leafs ignited the Stanley Cup second round with a 5-4 victory over the reigning champion Florida Panthers, stealing an early lead with an explosive first half and holding on late. The game, filled with drama and intrigue, left fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.
Leading with 33 seconds 🔥 Let’s go, @MapleLeafs! pic.twitter.com/CeqsugcSux
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 6
Stolarz Out, Woll In: What Does This Mean for the Series?
In a significant turn of events, Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz had to leave the game after taking a controversial hit from Panthers forward Sam Bennett midway through the second period. Stolarz, who had been playing well, was replaced by Joseph Woll.
**Did you know?** This is not the first time Bennett has incurred the wrath of Leafs fans. In their 2023 playoff series, Bennett’s hit on rookie Matthew Knies ended Knies’ season with a concussion.
Sports medics worldwide have expressed concern over Bennett’s hit this time around, with former NHL player and concussion expert Chris Nowinski tweeting, “I hope Anthony Stolarz is OK after this hit. Doesn’t look good, glad he was pulled.”
Stolarz’s injury throws a wrench into coach Craig Berube’s plan to roll with one goalie throughout the playoffs. Woll, who had not played in the post-season so far, had to enter the game without a warm-up. Despite the circumstances, he held his own, making 17 saves in the third period to secure the victory.
Joseph Woll stepping into the net with no warm-up and making huge saves 🚨 #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/j7x7o8u0bx
— Tim and Friends (@TimandFriends) May 6
Nylander Shines Bright in Win
William Nylander continued his stellar playoff performance with a two-goal, one-assist night, opening the series scoring just 33 seconds in. His fifth and sixth goals of the post-season, combined with an assist, leave him tied with Auston Matthews for most playoff goals among Leafs since 2017 and tied for the league lead in points.
**”Pro Tip:** Nylander’s hot start is a positive sign for Leafs fans. In his last three playoff games, he has six goals and two assists.”
Leafs Grind Out a Scrappy Win
The Panthers stormed back in the third period, scoring twice in the first five minutes to make it a one-goal game. However, the Leafs, learning from their first-round mistakes, held on for the win. Matthew Knies sealed the deal with an outstanding breakaway goal late in the third.
MATT KNIES WITH THE BREAKAWAY Beauty 🚨 #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/NNcKsh98Eo
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 6
Bennett’s Historic Feud with the Leafs
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Sam Bennett, the Panthers’ notorious agitator. His latest controversial hit has rekindled his feud with the Leafs and their fans. Leafs supporters will remember his role in ending Matthew Knies’ season in their 2023 playoff series.
Fan’s Question: Why do Panthers’ fans love Bennett despite his questionable hits?
Answer: Bennett’s physicality and skill make him an effective player. However, fans’ support for him also stems from his willingness to engage in physical play, which they see as maximizing his role in tough matchups.
Bobrovsky’s Slow Start and Belleville Senators’ Perspective
Panthers’ goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky had a shaky start, allowing three goals on 12 shots in the first period. However, he settled down and stymied the Leafs for the rest of the game. For a Belleville Senators’ perspective, consider this: their young guns, like Drake Batherson and Alex Formenton, could learn from Bobrovsky’s ability to bounce back after a bad start.
**FAQ:** How are Belleville Senators relevant to this matchup?
**Answer:** The Senators and Panthers have a history, having faced off in the playoffs in recent years. Plus, both teams boast young, exciting talent that fans can’t help but compare and contrast.
As the series shifts to Florida, the Leafs will look to maintain their momentum. They’ll need to manage the game better, learn from their slow starts, and nullify Bennett’s influence. Meanwhile, the Panthers will hope Bobrovsky can carry his momentum into Game 2 and beyond.
(Photo: Michael Chisholm/NHLI via Getty Images)
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