The Toronto Maple Leafs started 2025 the same way they finished 2024, defeating the New York Islanders.
Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann led the way. He continued his scorching-hot streak, potting two goals on the night, including the game-winner during a late power play in the third period. McMann now has 12 goals on the season and is on pace for 25-plus. At just $1.35 million AAV, he might be the most affordable X-factor in the league.
Maple Leafs’ netminder Joseph Woll continues to carry the load in Toronto’s crease. The 26-year-old stopped 31 shots for his 12th victory of the season. He was absolutely standing on his head early on during Thursday’s contest and was the main reason the Leafs never trailed in the game. Even the goal he let in wasn’t really his fault – Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s stick broke, Mitch Marner gave his up, and a circus ensued, resulting in Islanders’ defenceman Scott Mayfield getting one past a sprawling Woll:
Scott Mayfield ties it pic.twitter.com/mwP0CjstlO
— Omar (@TicTacTOmar) January 3, 2025
The Leafs have become road warriors this season, winning their fourth straight away from Scotiabank Arena, and it’s directly related to head coach Craig Berube. Berube has the team comfortable with playing ‘ugly’ and keeping things simple by chipping pucks in when they should be, taking their medicine, and using their speed and strength to get on top of defencemen. This is one of the many reasons why McMann and linemates Max Domi and Nick Robertson are crushing it lately.
For the most part, Thursday’s game was your textbook boring affair on Long Island. Ilya Sorokin stood tall when he needed to, John Tavares got booed by a fanbase with a long memory, and the Leafs held on late to grind out the two points.
There was a lot to like, mostly in McMann and Woll, and also the fact that the Leafs’ blueline got some pucks on net. Toronto’s defence landed five shots on goal, which is a start even if the bar is on the floor. The blueline didn’t score a goal the whole month of December, so seeing them trying to get more involved offensively was a nice start to 2025. McMann led the Leafs with six shots on net. Meanwhile, Connor Dewar landed a team-leading seven hits against the Islanders.
The Maple Leafs sit atop the Atlantic Division heading into the weekend’s back-to-back action. They continue to rack up points in a variety of ways, and considering they’re kicking off 2025 without their number-one centre and arguably their number-one goaltender, there’s no denying this Leafs team is much deeper than many anticipated.
Join us for the first-ever TLN Nation Vacation!
Alright, hockey fans, this isn’t just a trip—it’s the Nation Vacation, and we’re heading to the Music City from March 20th to 23rd! Get ready to watch Toronto take on Nashville in their own barn, soak up the honky-tonk vibes, and make unforgettable memories with the Nation crew. Whether you’re all in for a flight package or prefer a non-flight option, we’ve got you covered. Just don’t wait—spots are limited, and this trip is going to be electric. Book your spot NOW at nationgear.ca. Let’s go, Toronto! Nashville is calling!