It was truly Sidney Crosby’s night as Canada won in overtime against Sweden in the opening game of the 4 Nations Face-off. After an incredible first period by Canada, from then on Sweden battled back. In what became an intense and tight checking affair, there was still a heavy Toronto Maple Leafs angle, as Mitch Marner ended it all with an overtime goal. Let’s take a closer look at how the night went for the Leafs players involved in the night’s proceedings.
Pre-game ceremony
The night began with a ceremony involving representatives and captains from the four nations after the starting lineups were announced. Though Marner was on the bench, William Nylander received the largest jeer from the Canadian fans. This level of jeering was only matched as Auston Matthews was introduced for the ceremony. Clearly the fans were ready to cheer for Canada against all the competition, but no doubt the Montreal crowd had a little extra for their rivalry against the Leafs.
Nylander had an off night
Unfortunately for Nylander it was a tough night. He took a penalty in the first shift of the game, and Canada converted on the subsequent power play. He was not able to create much offence either. Nylander is expected to be a top producer for Sweden, and will have to be more effective if they wish to win the tournament. Stopping Nylander was no doubt one of the keys for Canada’s defensive efforts.
There were certainly some positives from Nylander, who made a number of strong defensive plays. Clearly he has the respect of his teammates, as he often led the pre face-off huddles for Sweden. Already wearing a letter, Nylander certainly seems like he might be the captain for Sweden in the future.
Of course, with the game in overtime, every time Nylander touched the puck the end of the game felt closer. The most dangerous moment for Nylander was not to be, as a potential breakaway pass was intercepted in overtime. Sweden clearly felt that Canada’s line change was too quick, and that a penalty for too many men was due.
Again, just prior to Marner’s game winner, Nylander had a glorious chance to end the game as chaos ensued off of a Swedish rush chance. Leafs fans are very familiar with Nylander’s breakaway talents, and Sweden might have easily come away victorious.
Marner’s contribution to the game
On a line with Connor McDavid and Sam Reinhart, Marner saw a great deal of action. Though the group was largely bottled up by Sweden’s impressive defence at even strength, McDavid still had some flashes of brilliance. Marner’s night was fairly quiet into the third period, where his work on the penalty kill was notable. The unit got little work on the night, but clearly Marner will be a big part of the puzzle.
Of course, the pivotal moment was Marner’s goal in overtime. Crosby pushed into the Swedish zone before launching a pass backwards to Marner. Crosby was able to retreat back over the blueline, staying onside as Marner broke into the zone. His long wrist shot found the top corner. Clearly this is a huge goal in Marner’s career, as scoring on this stage and in that moment is clutch. Scoring on a shot from long range is a nice sign as well, as often Marner is not thought of in such a way.
This is a great night for Leafs fans, as Marner’s confidence and reputation are raised by this pivotal goal. The tournament will offer more moments for Marner, Nylander, and Matthews to prove themselves. Given their lack of playoff success with the Leafs, this chance for glory is a great opportunity for one of their stars to prove themselves. There is a lot of tournament left, but it is fantastic for Marner to get this experience.
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