Toronto Maple Leafs: Can they finally rise to the occasion in Game 7?

The Toronto Maple Leafs missed a big opportunity to put the series away in Game 6 against the Boston Bruins leading to another dramatic Game 7 showdown.

Heading into this series, the memory of last season’s Game 7 was being remembered in almost every video montage and the Toronto Maple Leafs had their chance to put that narrative behind them.

Instead, they will have to face the dreaded must-win game back in the building which has brought painful memories to Leafs Nation. Now everyone is wondering whether this year can be different? Can the team rise to the occasion?

You certainly can’t fault those who are skeptical considering the Leafs history but one thing they have going for them are the two wins on the road in this series. They have also done a good job of following up a loss with a bounce-back effort even though Game 7 is a different animal.

More from Tip of the Tower

The unfortunate part about the Game 6 loss was the fact that Frederik Andersen was brilliant and gave the Leafs every chance to get back into the game. Unfortunately, the Boston Bruins were able to capitalize on their power-play chances and Jake DeBrusk’s drive to the net.

Another positive development for the Leafs has to be the play of Auston Matthews at both ends of the ice. After a silent start to the series, the 21-year-old has scored in four-straight games and that will most likely have to continue.

Looking back at Game 7 last year, Patrick Marleau had two goals, with Kasperi Kapanen and Travis Dermott also lighting the lamp. This time around, fans have been pretty vocal about Marleau’s ice time especially with the team trailing in Game 6, it’s his type of experience Mike Babcock is trying to lean on but it hasn’t worked out as he would have liked.

It has been a tough time for Leafs Nation, especially on social media with fans who for some reason feel like the best approach to their displeasure with the Leafs Game 6 loss is to go after players like William Nylander, Marleau and of course Babcock.

Now there is justification for some fans to call out the team when they are not playing to the expectations set, passion is what makes Leafs Nation one of the greatest fanbases in the NHL. At the same time, “if” the Leafs do not come away with the win in Game 7, it might be best to avoid social media altogether.

Next. 2019 NHL Draft Rankings-April. dark

If there is a time where Leafs fans need to support the team and every player on there, it’s Tuesday night with another do-or-die scenario.

Home/Toronto Maple Leafs