Maple Leafs News & Rumors: Stolarz, Knies, Marner & Lorentz – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, I will delve into their incredible performance on home ice against their long-time rivals, the Boston Bruins. It seems like the Bruins have had the Maple Leafs number for years. However, last night, there was a significant change. The Maple Leafs showed the resilience that proves they can hold their own against one of their strongest rivals.

Anthony Stolarz was the star of the game, playing well in net. But he wasn’t alone—Matthew Knies also stood tall, playing a key role by keeping the Bruins on their heels physically and tactically. The Maple Leafs’ simple but effective approach has rattled the Bruins, who looked incredibly disorganized as the game wore on.

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With this strong win and their previous win over the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Maple Leafs are showing signs that they can play a tough, determined style of hockey. The question is: Can this type of hockey serve them well in the postseason?

Item 1: Anthony Stolarz Registers The First Map Leaf Close-up

Stolarz led the Maple Leafs to a stunning 4-0 victory over the Bruins. He saved all 29 shots the Bruins put on net to record his first shutout on his new team. His performance was outstanding in Toronto. Stolarz has been reliable since joining the team as a free agent. His constant presence in the crease gives Toronto a strong base against the team’s rival.

The Bruins’ gritty style of play usually breaks the Maple Leafs’ resolve, but not tonight. Stolarz’s cool, creative play took Boston’s breath away. It should have frustrated the Bruins. Add the Maple Leafs defense; the game represented a concerted effort. Toronto successfully limited Boston’s scoring chances and secured the win.

Item 2: Matthew Knies Takes Net-Front Position

Knies continues to show impressive growth on the ice. Last night he scored and added an assist in a 4-0 win over Toronto. Surprisingly, both points came during chances. Perhaps the biggest revelation was just how effective Knies’ presence in front of Jeremy Swayman’s net could be. Knies have size and grit, but also quick response.

Related: Maple Leafs’ top 5 scenarios for Matthew Knies in 2023-24

Specifically, Knies successfully established himself at the top of the crease during the third period. There, he redirected a shot from William Nylander for his own goal. With seven goals and two assists in 14 games this season, Knies is currently second on the team in scoring, behind only Nylander and Auston Matthews. [Matthews is on pace for about 30 goals on the season, which is acceptable for everyone but him.]

Knies’ strong performances have led to an increase in his role under new coach Craig Berube. Berube encouraged Knies to use his physical game from north to south to create scoring opportunities and gain the upper hand. It works. In addition to his scoring, Knies has 35 hits and 32 shots. His commitment to playing tough and physical hockey is growing in every game. This balanced game, combining skill and grit, quickly made him a major asset (no pun intended) to the Maple Leafs. Knies’ development as a forward has been one of the most promising signs for the club this season.

Item 3: Mitch Marner Is Now On The 6 Game Relief List

Mitch Marner extended his scoring streak to six games last night by registering assists on two power plays. His playmaking ability is showing, and he has now tallied nine points—nine unassisted—in his last six games. While he averaged 30 goals a season the past three years, his 2024-25 total sits at just two. However, a 100 assist season will do the Toronto native good. His shooting percentage is a low 5.6% compared to his career average of 12.8%. As that shooting percentage goes up, his goal total will go up.

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Despite his decline in shooting, Marner’s ability to set up scoring opportunities fueled the team’s offense. He currently has 16 points this season, 14 of which are assists. This helping hand and elite play more than compensate for his lack of scoring.

Item 4: Steven Lorentz Scores an Empty-Netter for Goal #3

Steven Lorentz should be happy this season. He scored an empty net goal to give the Maple Leafs a 4-0 win. With two goals in his last three games, he has shown an upward trend in goals. Although he plays a fourth-line role, his minutes are limited, his physical presence remains the same. He is also trusted by Berube, which makes him stand out when the team has to go ahead. Can the young physical put up ten empty net goals in a season? He had 34 hits and 12 blocked shots in 14 games this season.

Given his role, Lorentz’s offensive opportunities may be limited, but he has been making the most of his opportunities. Currently sitting at four points, he has been a deep contributor, bringing strength to the top of the Maple Leafs while maintaining a strong two-way game.

What’s Next in Maple Leaves?

The Maple Leafs made a statement in their 4-0 win over Boston, showing rebounding, depth, and an improved power play. Entering the game with one of the weakest power play records in the league (4-for-40 on the season), the Maple Leafs scored three goals without Matthews. This game underscores their ability to show a balanced offense that steps up even without Matthews.

Related: Can the Maple Leafs Fix Their Powerplay Issues?

With this win, Toronto continues the momentum heading into the Detroit Red Wings on Friday. The team will aim to suddenly build a strong special teams play. Now the question arises: Does the Maple Leafs’ recent play indicate a potential shift toward establishing a consistent, impactful power play that can make the difference in close games?