Leafs can’t afford to look past Kraken
Campbell gets start as club tries to avoid third straight loss
What shaped up as a low-pressure game versus a last-place team in a relaxed, scenic vista has taken on a must-win vibe for the Maple Leafs.
Never mind attractions such as Pike Place Market, the Puget Sound waterfront and Space Needle, Toronto needs to stop a losing streak from reaching three games Monday night versus the Los Angeles.
The Leafs didn’t take all of Super Bowl Sunday off, coach Sheldon Keefe insisting they use afternoon ice at Climate Pledge Arena to refocus after digging themselves a second straight hole and losing 3-2 in Vancouver. Though out for less than half an hour, it should at least ease any unfamiliarity and nuances of the new rink ahead of Monday night’s first ever meeting with the Kraken.
Goaltender Jack Campbell should be especially keen on getting the bugs out. He gets the start on Monday, eager to overcome a series of sub-par nights that followed his great first half and berth in the NHL all-star game.
Campbell last played in the 5-2 loss to Calgary that opened this trip and he has three recent outings with five goals against in each. There was also a big flub versus New Jersey where Petr Mrazek had to come in early to turn the tide.
Frustration has also been evident with the club’s second line. Captain John Tavares, William Nylander and Alex Kerfoot have collectively been silenced so far in February, at least five-on-five. That means less chance the Leafs can score their way out of trouble when goaltending and defence falter, which has happened often of late, underscored with the absence of injured Jake Muzzin. Partner Justin Holl has had his own issues, a concern when the duo has such a vital shutdown role.
While the Leafs are finally healthy after one injury or another since training camp, full attendance has also pushed them to the limit of the salary cap, leaving room to carry only one extra player.
The expansion Kraken are getting great support at home despite their record, though many Toronto fans will no doubt find their way to this new destination, some travelling down from nearby B.C. If the Leafs can be steady at even strength, their league leading power play and strong penalty kill should be able to secure a positive result.
This will be the 37th time Toronto has faced a new NHL team since 1917, with a record of 19-15-2.