The Toronto Maple Leafs have a commanding 3-0 series lead over the Ottawa Senators in their first-round match-up. While much is due to the offensive production from the star players, terrific play from Anthony Stolarz in goal and game-winning goals from unlikely sources, they’re getting contributions throughout the lineup in many ways.
One of the main surprises early on in the post season has been the play of the fourth line of Calle Jarnkrok, Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz. They were formed towards the tail end of the regular season against the Calgary Flames and ever since, they have been consistent and reliable for head coach Craig Berube as a combination of a checking and energy line.
The fourth line alone has been extremely noticeable in a positive way as they’re doing exactly what a fourth line should be doing in the postseason to help create a spark and get things going for a team looking to make their mark on a deep run.
Setting the Tone and Getting Results
Teams that have an effective and competitive fourth line usually have success in the playoffs. The Maple Leafs have always lacked an identity on their fourth line, but now, they may have found that with Lorentz, Laughton and Jarnkrok.
Overall, there’s a great balance on the line and it’s showing with their speed and physicality. It took a while, but Laughton appears to be comfortable after having a slow start to his tenure as a Maple Leaf. Lorentz has become a fan favourite given his gritty side and ability to score at a key moment.
Towards the end of the regular season and into the playoffs, the chemistry has been growing between them and you can notice it with their play. They read each other very well but the results they get are just as substantial. They always seem to get the ball rolling and have set the tone with their physical play since Game 1, playing a part on Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s goal.
As a result, they’ve continued to battle, mix things up, play the body and set the tone each shift and they have been extremely dominant. They’re there to wear down their opponent and they’re doing a great job, but that’s not all that they’re doing. They’re creating opportunities and becoming a thorn in the side of the Senators as they out match their fourth line offensively. According to MoneyPuck, they have a Corsi for percentage of 51.3%.
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