The Toronto Maple Leafs continued their strong push for first place in the Atlantic Division with a 4-3 victory over the New York Rangers last night. This win marked their third straight, led by a standout game from John Tavares. The ex-captain scored twice and added an assist. Maple Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz made 27 saves in the crease.
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Led by a different group last night than those who beat the Colorado Avalanche just the night before, the Maple Leafs still played a determined game to overcome a Rangers team fighting for the playoffs. In doing so, they continued the balanced attack that has been part of their recent success.
Item One: John Tavares Hits 1,100 Career Points
Tavares delivered a solid game by scoring two goals and adding an assist. The 34-year-old also reached a milestone with his 1,100th career point. He’s still one of the NHL’s elite players. Tavares’ first goal came early in the game, with a one-timer off the rush that beat Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin. His second goal, coming in the second period, gave the Maple Leafs a 3-2 lead when he pumped home a rebound.
With 485 goals and 615 assists, Tavares remains central to Toronto’s playoff push. While he’s often overshadowed by other members of the Core Four (Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews, and William Nylander), his contributions and leadership remain key to the team winning. He’s now just one goal shy of his seventh 30-goal season.
Item Two: Jake McCabe Added Three Assists & Key Defence
Jake McCabe played a key role in the Maple Leafs’ win by registering three assists while playing solid defence. The blue liner also ate up significant ice time (22:33). While he’s known more for his defence, McCabe’s three-assist game was a career highlight with the Maple Leafs.
Related: Maple Leafs’ John Tavares Reaches 1,100 Career Points
One of McCabe’s helpers came on Bobby McMann’s goal when his perfect pass allowed McMann to tip it past Shesterkin. McCabe’s solid defensive play has only improved by his strong partnership with Chris Tanev. They’ve given the team a steady presence on the back end.
Item Three: Bobby McMann’s Importance is Growing for Toronto
McMann continues to prove his value to the Maple Leafs. Last night, he scored a goal and added an assist in the 4-3 win over the Rangers. McMann…
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