Maple Leafs Force Game 7 with 2-0 Win over Panthers

The Toronto Maple Leafs forced a decisive Game 7 against the Florida Panthers with a resilient 2-0 victory in Game 6, highlighted by Auston Matthews' first goal of the series and Max Pacioretty's insurance goal. Matthews' goal was especially significant as it ended a scoring drought in this playoff round and demonstrated his crucial role in keeping the Leafs' season alive. Goalie Joseph Woll delivered a standout performance with a shutout, stopping all 21 shots faced, while the team showed strong defensive commitment by blocking 31 shots overall. Despite injuries to key players like Matthew Knies and Matthews himself sustaining a facial injury, the Leafs maintained their composure and energy to stifle the reigning Stanley Cup champions. Defenseman Brandon Carlo, recently acquired from the Bruins, expressed strong confidence in the team's unity and ability to advance past their recent playoff struggles, noting the group's special chemistry. The winner of the upcoming Game 7 will face the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final, marking a significant opportunity for the Maple Leafs, who have not reached this stage since 2002.