Toronto Hockey Daily has no direct affiliation to the Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL or NHLPA
Maple Leafs confirm line combinations and starting goalie for tonight's clash with the Hurricanes
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Craig Berube is sticking with what worked, and for the Toronto Maple Leafs, that means rolling out the exact same lineup tonight that earned a 4 1 win over the Florida Panthers, including Joseph Woll and the Toronto Maple Leafs holding strong in net.
Toronto's victory on Tuesday was one of its most complete games of the season. Berube praised the group for its pace, structure and commitment to winning battles, and the decision to keep the lineup unchanged sends a clear message about rewarding performance.
Joseph Woll, fresh off a calm, composed outing, gets the crease again. His reads looked sharp, his rebound control was firm and his presence seemed to settle the Leafs' defensive game.
Berube wants that continuity against a Carolina team that thrives on pressure. The skaters remain identical as well. A full list of the lines from practice on Wednesday was shared by TSN's Mark Masters during the session.
Keeping the lineup intact also signals trust. The Leafs have battled inconsistency all year, but Berube believes this mix showed the identity he has been pushing for since October.
Craig Berube leaning on rhythm and accountability as Leafs face Hurricanes
Fans welcomed the decision, noting how often the Leafs shifted line combinations during earlier struggles. This time, the coach wants rhythm rather than reaction. The message is simple and unmistakable: play the right way, earn another night.
Woll's start is equally important. His steadiness contrasts the uncertainty brought on by injuries to the blueline. If he delivers another composed performance, Toronto gains stability in a stretch where every point matters as they look to get back into the playoff picture.
Berube's decision also shows confidence that Tuesday's effort was not a one off. He wants a repeat of the aggressiveness, the tempo and the defensive integrity that frustrated Florida from start to finish. Against Carolina's relentless attack, that commitment will be tested immediately.
For a Leafs team trying to build momentum, keeping everything exactly the same might be the smartest change of all.
| POLL | ||
46 MINUTES AGO | 16 ANSWERS Maple Leafs confirm line combinations and starting goalie for tonight's clash with the Hurricanes Will the unchanged lineup help the Maple Leafs secure another win tonight? | ||
TRENDING NOW
