3 Reasons Not to Lose Hope in the Maple Leafs

Sometimes a team gives you a game that reminds you why you keep watching. The Toronto Maple Leafs’ 6-2 win over Columbus was one of those nights. They scored four goals in less than 10 minutes in the second period, and every one came off the rush.

There are still plenty of questions about this team, of course. But if you’re looking for a few reasons to feel better about the Maple Leafs, I can think of three from this game alone.

Reason One: Easton Cowan Is Becoming a More Complete Player.

It’s one thing for a young player to arrive in the NHL with confidence. It’s another to earn the trust that comes with more responsibility. Cowan scored his fourth goal of the season shorthanded and continues to show he can do more than provide a bit of offensive energy. He’s now a regular penalty killer, and coach Jim Hiller says he has exceeded even his high expectations.

What caught my attention was Hiller’s explanation of Cowan’s progress. It’s about physical maturity, but also understanding how the NHL works. The game is different from junior hockey and the American League, and young players have to learn those differences.

Cowan seems to be figuring that out quickly. We shouldn’t expect a young player to get everything right every night, but it’s encouraging to watch him earn his place.

Reason Two: The Maple Leafs Remembered How to Attack.

Four second-period goals in under 10 minutes is impressive enough. The way they scored them might be even more encouraging. Hiller pointed to better puck management and getting the puck behind the opposition before skating into open ice. That allowed the Maple Leafs to attack with speed and create strong chances.

It sounds simple, but it’s an important reminder. This team has players who can make things happen when they move their feet and attack together. Auston Matthews scored in his 700th NHL game, William Nylander added a goal, and Jack Roslovic chipped in with a goal and two assists.

Morgan Rielly also had three assists, including the skating and joining the rush that have long been part of his game. The question now is whether the Maple Leafs can make this approach a habit rather than something we celebrate after one good night.

Reason Three: Contributions Came From All Over the Lineup.

Marshall Rifai’s goal was a nice example. Hiller admitted the coaching staff wasn’t even sure whether to put him into the lineup against a big Columbus team. Rifai had waited patiently, got his opportunity, and finished the night with a goal.

That’s a good story, but it also speaks to the value of having players ready when their number is called. Easton Cowan, Roslovic, Rielly and Anthony Stolarz all made important contributions, too. Stolarz stopped 33 of 35 shots, helping the Maple Leafs withstand a substantial shot advantage for Columbus.

Maple Leafs Fans Should Enjoy the Win, but Keep It in Perspective.

Let’s not get carried away. Toronto was outshot 37-22 and recorded only 14 hits. One win doesn’t answer every question. But there’s a difference between pretending everything is fine and recognizing genuine progress when it appears. The Maple Leafs played faster, got contributions from unexpected places, and watched a young player keep growing.

That’s enough for one night. The next challenge is doing it again against the New York Rangers on Thursday.