North6ix Recap: Round 2 - Game 6 - Toronto vs Florida

(Picture via The Hockey News)

The Toronto Maple Leafs staved off elimination with a 2–0 victory over the Florida Panthers in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series on Friday night in Sunrise, Florida. This win ties the series at 3–3, setting up a decisive Game 7 in Toronto on Sunday. Sports Interaction

After two scoreless periods, Auston Matthews broke the deadlock at 6:20 of the third period, netting his first goal of the series off a feed from Mitch Marner. Max Pacioretty added an insurance goal at 14:17, assisted by Bobby McMann and Max Domi. Goaltender Joseph Woll, stepping in for the injured Anthony Stolarz, recorded his first career postseason shutout with 22 saves. The Leafs' defense was formidable, blocking 31 shots and successfully killing all four of Florida's power plays. NHL

Florida's offense, which had seen contributions from 17 different goal scorers in their first 10 playoff games, was stifled throughout the match. Despite outshooting Toronto in the first period, the Panthers couldn't capitalize on their chances. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky made 15 saves but couldn't prevent the loss. The CBSSports.com

This victory marks a significant rebound for Toronto, especially after a 6–1 defeat in Game 5. The Leafs are now 4–2 when facing elimination since the start of the 2023 playoffs. Game 7 will determine who advances to the Eastern Conference Final.