After dropping Saturday night's matchup in Washington to the Capitals, the Leafs fall to 19-7-6 and find themselves on a two-game losing streak. The loss tonight marks the first time they've given up five goals or lost by three goals in a game this season. As the Buds are coming off a fifteen-game streak in which they did not lose a game in regulation, this also marks the first time this season that the Leafs have lost back-to-back games in regulation.
With the success the Leafs have found this season, it was bound to happen. Although we fans expect a win every night, it's not always guaranteed, especially when facing two lethal offensive-level threats in the New York Rangers and Washington Capitals.
Despite outshooting their opponents 36-28, It was a tough look tonight, which is understandable and almost certain to happen after an impressive run like the one they just had through both Marner and the team's successful stretch.
Although some fans claim tonight's performance was their worst of the season, a couple of bad games should not undermine how good this team has been. What must be considered is the Leafs are nearly halfway through the regular season (32 games in), and this is just the first time that they have allowed five goals, lost by a spread of 3 goals, and lost back-to-back games in regulation.
For the Leafs, this is impressive, considering the numerous injuries faced in the crease and on the blue line. These stats contribute to the success of depth found within the Leafs defense, goaltending, and the team's success as a whole in fighting for a point night in and night out.
