On a night that began celebrating the recent accomplishments of Connor McDavid and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, it was Mitch Marner’s 200th career goal that sealed the deal in a Leafs overtime win over the Edmonton Oilers. It was a back-and-forth affair between two of the league’s top teams, and some of the league’s top players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the storylines from Saturday night’s action.
Reaves dirty hit
After an Oilers goal, Ryan Reaves landed a huge hit on Darnell Nurse. The hit was directly to the head, leaving Nurse injured. It is good news that Nurse was said to be in good spirits, but needless to say, the defenceman will probably miss some time. Reaves will be missing some time as well, as he will likely face a lengthy suspension.
Over a decade ago the NHL had a number of headshots, forcing the league to punish such transgressions more aggressively. As a result, these days such hits are far less common. The expectation should be a lengthy suspension, and even an in-person hearing for Reaves, which would signify a suspension of more than five games.
The Leafs were able to kill off the subsequent five minute penalty. The team will not miss Reaves too much, but it was an ugly incident and hardly an ideal situation for anyone involved.
The Berube way working
The Leafs did play fast, most evident by the team’s forechecking efforts. Bobby McMann and Matthew Knies were rewarded for their efforts with three goals between them, but their good work started on the forecheck.
The duo were able to lead the pressure that victimized the Oilers defence on several occasions. McMann, in particular, was a menace to the Oilers, using his speed to overwhelm even the most capable defenders. This style of play is exactly the sort of direct and forceful effort that coach Craig Berube has been preaching.
It was surprising to see McMann scratched to start the year, but clearly Berube is trying to get the most out of him. McMann has the size, speed, talent, and shot to be an impactful player every game, but it begins with effort and Berube’s trademark directness. When McMann is locked in and moving his feet, he is a force. There is no reason that he cannot bring this every night, which might explain some of Berube’s early discipline.
The blueline continues to impress
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl were their usual, brilliant selves, scoring a goal and an assist each. Still, it was another strong performance by the Leafs blueline, showing off their depth as all three pairings saw significant ice time.
It was Jani Hakanpaa who saw the least amount of ice time, at only 12:34. Hakanpaa did have some less flattering moments with the puck, but is still getting up to speed. Conor Timmins continues his strong play, asserting himself as the clear fifth option for the Leafs. Especially given Nurse’s injury for the Oilers, the Leafs strength here was a big difference in the game. The additions of Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson have taken a lot off the plates of Jake McCabe and Morgan Rielly.
While the Leafs do not have a true Norris Trophy candidate, the strength of their weakest link is a valuable measurement as well. At this point, Hakanpaa is in a battle with Simon Benoit and Philippe Myers for the sixth spot, and all three are reasonable depth options who can defend in-zone.
Bottom line
At the end of the day, this was a playoff-style win against a playoff-proven opponent. Come the spring, the real thing will be even more intense, but clearly the Leafs have begun to establish a more conventional playoff identity. The hardest truths are often simple, or direct.
