menu_open Columnists
We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Puck management key for Domi to stick with Tavares, Nylander

6 0
18.04.2025

The Maple Leafs held an optional skate at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday.

---

With one game left in the regular season, Leafs coach Craig Berube doesn't sound sold on his second line.

Three different left wingers – Bobby McMann, Calle Jarnkrok and Max Domi – have slotted in beside John Tavares and William Nylander over the past five games. Domi played there in the past two games and the reviews are mixed.

"There's things I like, and there's things that I don't particularly like all the time," Berube said. "For me, it's about them managing the puck more than anything."

Domi picked up the primary assist on goals by Tavares and Nylander during Sunday's win over the Carolina Hurricanes. But Toronto's second line was the only one not to score on Tuesday in Buffalo and the Sabres actually outshot the Leafs 9-6 when they were on the ice, per NaturalStatTrick.com.

"They've got to understand that hope plays aren’t good plays," Berube stressed. "We need good hockey plays, and if they can get that mindset, that could be a dangerous line. I mean, I think you have a little bit of everything on that line. They did a lot of good things. There's things that they probably can do better to."

There is one last chance to build chemistry before the playoffs on Thursday when the Leafs wrap up their regular-season schedule against the Detroit Red Wings.

"Two great players and obviously make a lot happen," Domi said. "They know how to score, so a great opportunity."

Nylander leads the Leafs with 45 goals but has tallied just once in the past five games.

Tavares saw his four-game point streak come to an end on Tuesday.

Domi started last year's playoffs on Toronto's top line beside Auston Matthews and Tyler Bertuzzi.........

© TSN