TORONTO – The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the brink of elimination as they prepare for Game 6 against the Florida Panthers tonight at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida. After taking an early 2–0 series lead, the Leafs have suffered three consecutive losses, including a crushing 6–1 defeat in Game 5. The Panthers now lead the best-of-seven series 3–2 and have the opportunity to close it out on home ice.
In Game 5, Florida showcased their depth with six different goal scorers and a dominant performance from goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, who stopped 31 of 32 shots. Bobrovsky’s stellar play has been a significant factor in the Panthers’ resurgence, boasting a .906 save percentage in the playoffs.
Toronto’s star players, including Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander, have faced criticism for their lackluster performances during this losing streak. The “Core Four” have yet to advance past the second round in their careers, and tonight’s game presents a critical opportunity to change that narrative.
Goaltending remains a concern for the Leafs, with Joseph Woll expected to start again in Game 6. Woll was pulled in the third period of Game 5 after allowing five goals on 25 shots. Anthony Stolarz remains sidelined due to injury, leaving Toronto with limited options between the pipes.
Historically, the Maple Leafs have struggled when trailing 3–2 in a series, holding a 6–18 record in such scenarios. Conversely, the Panthers have a 5–1 record when leading 3–2 in a best-of-seven series.
📺 How to Watch
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Canada: CBC, Sportsnet, TVAS
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USA: TNT, truTV, Max
As the puck drops tonight at 8:00 PM ET, all eyes will be on the Maple Leafs to see if they can stave off elimination and force a decisive Game 7 back in Toronto. The Panthers, meanwhile, aim to capitalize on their momentum and advance to their second consecutive Eastern Conference Final.
Stay tuned to GTA Weekly Sports for post-game analysis and coverage.
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