Marner tallies 3rd-period winner as Maple Leafs beat Panthers to claim 2-0 series lead
The Toronto Maple Leafs had a dramatic Game 2 victory against the Florida Panthers, thanks to standout performances from Mitch Marner and Joseph Woll. Marner, who recently became a father, scored the game-winning goal in the third period, while Woll stepped up in place of the injured Anthony Stolarz and made 25 saves to secure the win.
Marner, who celebrated his 28th birthday during the game, shared that becoming a parent added an extra layer of motivation for him on the ice. His goal, which came just seconds after the Panthers tied the game, showcased his composure and determination to play for his newborn son, Miles.
On the other hand, Woll, who hadn’t started a game since mid-April, delivered a stellar performance under pressure. His calm demeanor and strong play in the net earned praise from Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube, who commended his ability to stay focused and make crucial saves throughout the game.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading goals and momentum swings. Max Pacioretty and Max Domi also contributed with goals and assists for the Maple Leafs, while Anton Lundell, Aleksander Barkov, and Brad Marchand found the back of the net for the Panthers.
Despite the Panthers’ efforts to tie the game late in the third period, the Maple Leafs held on for the win and now hold a 2-0 series lead as they head to South Florida for Game 3. The matchup between these Atlantic Division rivals promises to be intense, with both teams looking to make adjustments and improve their performance in the upcoming games.
Overall, the Game 2 victory was a testament to the Maple Leafs’ resilience and depth, with Marner and Woll stepping up in key moments to secure the win. As the series progresses, fans can expect more thrilling action and competitive play from both teams as they battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
