Maple Leafs Let Game 3 Slip — Can They Regain Control? – The Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

Three games in, and every contest between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Florida Panthers has been decided by a single goal. But none felt more like a pivot point than Game 3. With a 2–1 series lead instead of a commanding 3–0 stranglehold, the Maple Leafs must regroup quickly, because the balance of power might have just shifted in Florida’s favor.

Related: Brad Marchand the OT Hero as Panthers Beat Maple Leafs 5-4 in Game 3

This game wasn’t just another Maple Leafs loss. It was a reminder of how thin the line is between control and collapse in the NHL playoffs — and how one save, or one missed opportunity, can swing the story completely.

1. A Pair of Maple Leafs Breakaways, Two Missed Opportunities

Toronto had two golden chances to end Game 3 in overtime. William Nylander and Matthew Knies each had a clean look and went in alone. Sadly, for the Maple Leafs faithful, Sergei Bobrovsky turned aside both. Moments later, Brad Marchand scored at the other end — and just like that, what could’ve been a near-insurmountable 3–0 series lead was transformed into a 2–1 nail-biter.

If either breakaway goes in, the headlines shift. We’d talk about Nylander’s MVP-level postseason or Knies becoming a breakout playoff hero. Instead, the story is Florida’s veteran savvy and timely execution. How, amazingly, they could pick up Maple Leafs nemesis Marchand for a song at the trade deadline.

Related: Maple Leafs Benefit From Sam Bennett’s Lack of Suspension

Now, as it sits, Game 4 is a harsh reminder that the playoffs aren’t always about who generates the most chances. Instead, who finishes the ones that matter? That’s where we are because of a bounce that went wrong.

2. The Panthers Show Their Teeth

Give Florida credit: they responded like a team that’s been here before. Marchand’s overtime winner marked his 14th playoff game-winning goal. Act surprised if you wish, but that’s the most among active NHL players. Bobrovsky, who struggled early in the series, has returned to form at the perfect moment. His saves on Nylander and Knies weren’t just clutch: they might be series-shaping.