The Maple Leafs finally showed what they’re truly capable of, crushing the Penguins 7-2 in Pittsburgh with their most complete game of the season.
Playing their second game in two nights, Toronto didn’t just win – they dominated in a way that’s been missing all year.
Auston Matthews looked like his old self again, and it’s no accident. Coach Craig Berube made some smart adjustments, cutting back Matthews’ penalty-killing duties while letting him focus on what he does best: scoring goals and creating havoc in the offensive zone.
The whole team looked fresher, with almost everyone except Matthew Knies playing under 20 minutes. That’s exactly how you want to manage ice time in a back-to-back situation.
The bottom of the lineup stepped up big time. Bobby McMann, Nic Roy, Nick Robertson and Dakota Joshua all found the back of the net, turning what could’ve been a close game into a blowout.
In net, Dennis Hildeby was rock solid, stopping 35 of 37 shots. When Pittsburgh tried to mount a comeback, he shut the door.
But here’s what’s really exciting for Leafs fans: this wasn’t just about one good night. This looked like a team that’s finally found its identity.
Berube seems to have figured out how to use his players the right way. Matthews is doing what he does best, Knies is getting meaningful minutes, and the bottom six are playing with confidence.
They don’t need to be perfect anymore to win games. They just need to be smart and take their chances when they come.
The real test will be against playoff teams in the coming weeks. But if they can keep playing this style of hockey – disciplined, direct, and simple – that 7-2 win in Pittsburgh might just be remembered as the night everything clicked into place.
This is exactly what Toronto needed heading into the final stretch of the season. No more excuses about December slumps or bad luck. They’ve shown they can play this way.
Now they just need to do it consistently.
