Elliotte Friedman Weighs in on Maple Leafs Game 1 Loss

Before Game 2 of the Boston Bruins—Toronto Maple Leafs first-round series begins, let’s examine several points that Elliotte Friedman made when discussing Game 1. Here are his thoughts about the Maple Leafs’ strategies and performances.

You can watch them in the video below.

Comment One: The Goaltending Strategy for Bruins

Friedman suggests that the Bruins start Jeremy Swayman in Game 2 and switch to Linus Ullmark for Game 3. Friedman believes mixing the goalies is a good play because last postseason, Swayman was somewhat neglected. It showed as the Florida Panthers came roaring back to take the series.

Friedman believes this strategy emphasizes keeping goaltenders fresh and unpredictable, which could complicate the Maple Leafs’ game planning.

Comment Two: Toronto Was Too Predictable Against Swayman

Friedman noted that Swayman was prepared for Toronto’s strategies, including targeting the far post. As a result, Swayman successfully countered these tactics. He believes that the Maple Leafs must innovate offensively to surprise Swayman, who has studied and adapted to their common plays effectively.

Comment Three Toronto Encountered Scoring Challenges

Friedman pointed out that Toronto failed to generate high-quality chances near the net, contrasting with how Jake DeBrusk scored his goals from close range. He believed the Maple Leafs might need to increase their physical presence in the crease and create more traffic in front of the net. That would help to obscure Swayman’s vision and create rebound opportunities.

Comment Four: The Maple Leafs Suffered the Impact of Their Emotional Reactions

The Maple Leafs seemed to lose momentum after giving up early goals, and Friedman questioned if this changed their style of play. Specifically, the Maple Leafs allowed the Bruins goals to suck the life out of them. The emotional reactions won’t further degrade their team performance if Toronto can maintain composure and resilience after conceding goals.

Comment Five: Toronto Is Missing William Nylander

The Maple Leafs felt William Nylander’s absence in Game 1. He is a key player who influences the team’s breakout and offensive dynamics. Friedman believed that Nylander’s ability to handle the puck and create plays is critical to the Maple Leafs’ success. His absence disrupts Toronto’s usual gameplay, stressing the importance of depth and adaptability.

Comment Six: The Maple Leafs Lack of Discipline and Many Penalties Cost Them

Friedman criticized Toronto for taking undisciplined penalties, which was especially costly given their lower-ranked penalty kill. He believes that discipline is key in the playoffs. If the Maple Leafs can avoid unnecessary penalties, they can prevent giving the opponent advantageous situations.

Comment Seven: Fans Should Have a Perspective on Losses

Friedman remarked that he believed Maple Leafs fans would likely overreact. That’s a common response among fans and media in Toronto. While the loss was not good, it was only a single loss. Friedman emphasized viewing the playoffs as a long-term battle where each game is just one part. He believed such a perspective was important for keeping morale and focus in check, preventing a defeatist attitude after initial setbacks.

Old Prof Hockey

Random Thoughts About The NHL from an Old Prof