Maple Leafs Confirm Line Combinations Against Panthers for Critical Game 3 Matchup

Ahead of Game 2, there was plenty of speculation about the Leafs deploying a heavier lineup by potentially inserting Ryan Reaves to exact retribution on Sam Bennett after his collision with Anthony Stolarz in Game 1.

That was not the case as Craig Berube stuck to his guns, and it paid off once again as the Leafs held on to take a 2-0 series lead. For the second consecutive game, Joseph Woll will get the nod between the pipes while Stolarz remains in Toronto recovering from what very well may be a concussion, though that has not been confirmed.

Up front, it was status quo during line rushes with the Leafs running the same lines as Games 1 and 2. Berube's shift of Max Pacioretty onto the second line with William Nylander and John Tavares during the first round against the Senators has continued to pay off through the first two games of round 2.

It's omething Berube will hope continues in Game 3 as he loses the ability to match lines with the series shifting to Florida, giving the Panthers the last line change.

On the blueline, it was more of the same with each of the pairings staying together, and for good reason. The Leafs' blueline has not only been excellent defensively, but offensively, they have outdone themselves, posting 7 goals and 19 points in 8 games, after posting just 21 goals combined all season.

As the Leafs look to take their second 3-0 series lead of the post-season, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice was less certain when asked about his lineup, noting that health concerns may require him to make some changes.