Be sure to like HockeyBuzz on facebook! For the latest Leafs updates or Follow @mikeinbuffalo on Twitter The Toronto Maple Leafs knew what was coming in their playoff match with the Columbus Blue Jackets, but were unable to get past their stingy defense in a 2-0 loss in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup qualifying round on Sunday. The Leafs are expected to make a few tactical changes and may tinker with their lineup in hopes of a different result in Game 2 of the best-of-five series at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday afternoon. Toronto’s high powered offensive attack was limited to only 28 shots and were shutout by Joonas Korpisalo in Game 1, but the Jackets goalie was only tested seriously on three occasions, by rookie Nick Robertson in the first period, and by Auston Matthews and John Tavares late in the game.
Columbus will look to deny the Leafs easy entry into their zone by stacking up at their blueline and force Toronto into playing a dump and chase game that they are not suited for, while the Leafs may attempt to use cross-ice passes to find easier avenues and create offensive chances.
Ready for battle. #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/BK8w26A5qX
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) August 4, 2020