John Tavares Shares Surprising Comments, Even After Dominant Leafs Win in Game 1

"It was intense. It was a battle, it's called Battle of Ontario for a reason," Tavares said post-game. "It was a hard-fought game, obviously a lot of good things we did to put ourselves in a good spot to get the result we want, but we know we can be a lot better. As the series develops, we'll have to continue to improve our game and execute, and look at the things we did well."

"Playing physical, winning battles, winning races, 50/50 pucks, desperation to win lines, advance plays, block shots, all those things add up," Tavares said. "And certainly the physical nature of the playoffs is a big part of it. That was something that we've always wanted to bring as part of our identity, as Chief has emphasized throughout the season."